Letters from CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 34, No. 8

inside

THIS ISSUE

Letters from CAMP Rehoboth welcomes submissions. Email editor@camprehoboth.com. Photographs must be high resolution (300 dpi). Documents should be sent as attachments in Microsoft Word®. Deadline for submissions is two weeks prior to the issue release date. Letters to the Editor (up to 300 words) are published at the discretion of the Editor on a space-available basis. Letters may be edited for length or clarity.

LESLIE SINCLAIR & JOE GFALLER

EDITOR Marj Shannon

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE Matty Brown

DESIGN AND LAYOUT Mary Beth Ramsey

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Tricia Massella

DISTRIBUTION Mark Wolf

CONTRIBUTORS: Ann Aptaker, Chris Azzopardi, Rich Barnett, Matty Brown, Ed Castelli, Pattie Cinelli, Wes Combs, Michael Cook, Jeffrey Dannis, Robert DeDominic, Clarence Fluker, Michael Thomas Ford, Joe Gfaller, Sarah Bricker Hunt, Fay Jacobs, Glenn Lash, Leslie Ledogar, Kim Leisey, Tricia Massella, Christopher Moore, Sharon Morgan, Eric Peterson, Mary Beth Ramsey, Stephen Raskauskas, Richard Rosendall, Nancy Sakaduski, Romeo San Vicente, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Marj Shannon, Beth Shockley, Leslie Sinclair, Jake Solyst, Mary Jo Tarallo, Eric Wahl

Letters from CAMP Rehoboth is published 11 times per year, between February and December, as a program of CAMP Rehoboth Inc., a non-profit community service organization. CAMP Rehoboth seeks to create a more positive environment of cooperation and understanding among all people. Revenue generated by advertisements supports CAMP Rehoboth’s purpose as outlined in our mission statement.

The inclusion or mention of any person, group, or business in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth does not, nor is it intended in any way, to imply sexual orientation or gender identity. The content of the columns are the views and opinions of the writers and may not indicate the position of CAMP Rehoboth, Inc.

© 2024 by CAMP Rehoboth, Inc. All rights reserved by CAMP Rehoboth. No

CAMP REHOBOTH MISSION STATEMENT AND PURPOSE

MISSION

CAMP Rehoboth is an LGBTQ+ community center determined to Create A More Positive (CAMP) environment that is inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities in southern Delaware and beyond. We seek to promote cooperation, understanding among all people, and well-being, as we continue our to work to build a safer community with room for all.

VISION

CAMP Rehoboth envisions communities in Southern Delaware and beyond where all LGBTQ+ people thrive.

PURPOSE

Promoting the health and wellness of our community through a variety of programs including HIV testing and counseling, mental health support, fitness classes, mindfulness classes, support for LGBTQ youth, and building community and support.

Promoting artistic expressions and creative thinking, and giving aid to artists and craftspeople with an emphasis on the works of LGBTQ people.

Advocating for our community to build a safe and inclusive community through voter information, education, and registration; and analysis of issues and candidates.

Education and outreach to the larger community, including sensitivity training seminars, and printed materials to promote positive images of LGBTQ people and our allies.

Networking resources and information by publishing a magazine, and functioning as an alternative tourist bureau and information center.

WFrom the Editor

BY MARJ SHANNON, EDITOR

e made it—it’s Second Season! The weather is great, the water is still warm, the crowds are thinning, and the parking is (in Rehoboth, anyway) meter-free. I mean, what’s not to love?!

Other things to love about Second Season? Well, there’s the CAMP Rehoboth Chorus ALLIANCE concert (last weekend of this month), and wonderful exhibits in the CAMP Rehoboth Gallery (ongoing). Joe Gfaller points us toward some terrific productions that will grace area stages in the coming weeks.

Looking out to October, there’s the CAMP Rehoboth Block Party on October 20. Talk about a good time! Vendors, nonprofits, entertainers—come on down to Baltimore Avenue that day for a street fair extraordinaire.

There’s lots to love in these pages, too. For one, here we are at National Banned Books Week (September 22-28). Nancy Sakaduski describes how some groups make book challenges easy-peasy for those wanting to mount a campaign (never mind reading the book). And, how libraries in some states (including Delaware) are taking preemptive action to protect patrons’ right to read. Ann Aptaker tells us about the author of America’s first banned book, published in 1637. Clearly (sadly), book banning is nothing new.

For another, National Coming Out Day is not far off (October 11). Christopher Moore speaks to his own—okay, abrupt; awkward—departure from the closet, and Clarence Fluker to some benefits he’s found in living openly. Eric Peterson left the closet some time ago, but recently had another epiphany—read all about it on page 44. Maybe you’re ready to be “out” on the road, too? Delaware has a nifty new license plate you might like—take a look on page 20.

What else? Some of our writers spoke to the value—the joy—of connections; see Sharon Morgan’s Health & Wellness piece. Mary Jo Tarallo reports on some lesser-known aspects of the Delaware Food Bank’s work—the CAMP Rehoboth Outreach Program (CROP) regularly volunteers there. Ed Castelli serves up Korean street tacos, and Jeffrey Danner explores cleaning up the “dirty dozen” of the produce aisle. And Rich Barnett chronicles his trip to a firing range. Wait— what?!

In August, we asked readers (via the “Opportunity Box” at the bottom of this page) to send us any entries they’d somehow failed to submit to the BulwerLytton contest. And someone answered! Thank you! See page 50 for this “great” bit of prose.

Yes, indeed, there’s lots to read between these covers!

PRESIDENT Wesley Combs

VICE PRESIDENT Leslie Ledogar

SECRETARY Pat Catanzariti

TREASURER Polly Donaldson

AT-LARGE DIRECTORS

Amanda Mahony Albanese, Lewis Dawley, Mike DeFlavia, David Garrett, Jenn Harpel, Kim Leisey (non-voting), Michelle Manfredi, and Teri Seaton

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Kim Leisey

CAMP REHOBOTH

37 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 tel 302-227-5620 | email editor@camprehoboth.com www.camprehoboth.org

CAMP

tax purposes and may be deducted to the fullest extent of the

A copy of our exemption document is available for public inspection.

This month, we have a new “ask”; see the box below for details. We’d love to hear from you, so start thinking (and typing)—deadline for our next issue is October 4.

November is National Novel Writing Month, familiarly known as “NaNoWriMo” (nanowrimo.org). To help you prepare, we’re asking you to send us only the title of the novel you’re planning (hoping?) to produce during 2024’s NaNoWriMo.

Please send to editor@camprehoboth.org submissions will appear in our October issue. Let’s see if we can fill a page….

Get Your Flu Shot

It’s that time of year! CAMP Rehoboth is partnering with Bayhealth to provide an opportunity for community members to get their annual vaccines for the flu on Wednesday, October 16, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Plan to protect yourself and those close to you— the flu vaccine can lower the chances of you spreading the virus to others. Appointments are free of charge, but advance registration is required by signing up at camprehoboth.org/events or by calling 302-227-5620.

Please note that registrants must be 18 years or older to receive a flu shot at this clinic and the shot offered is the standard flu shot, not the senior version. ▼

Thank You, Senator Carper

CAMP

Rehoboth was honored to host Senator Carper on August 13 for his final visit before his retirement in January. Senator Carper has dedicated time each year to visit CAMP Rehoboth and listen to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community in southern Delaware.

Join CAMP Rehoboth in thanking Senator Carper for his continued allyship, and extending best wishes for his next chapter with retirement! ▼

National Coming Out Day

National Coming Out Day is Friday, October 11. The day honors the LGBTQ+ community’s embrace of their authentic selves and celebrates the power of visibility.

As noted by the Human Rights Campaign, “Sharing our authentic selves with others is not always safe or easy, and it is not a one-day event—but when possible, it can be an extraordinarily powerful key to breaking down the barriers we face as LGBTQ+ people.”

CAMP Rehoboth will celebrate National Coming Out Day with a happy hour at Aqua Bar & Grill. Check out the website camprehoboth.org/events for more details. ▼

Hosting the Galvin Quartet

CAMP Rehoboth is partnering with Coastal Concerts to present the Galvin Quartet in the Elkins-Archibald Atrium on Friday, October 4, at 2:00 p.m. Attendance is free, but advance registration is required and can be done at camprehoboth.org/events.

Composed of members from China, Brazil, South Korea, and the United States, the Galvin Cello Quartet burst onto the scene after capturing the Silver Medal at the 2021 Fischoff Competition, followed by winning the 2022 Concert Artists Guild Victor Elmaleh Competition and joining the Concert Artists Guild roster. Cellists James Baik, Sydney Lee, Haddon Kay, and Luiz Fernando Venturelli met as students at Northwestern University's Bienen School of Music in the studio of acclaimed pedagogue Hans Jørgen Jensen. The Quartet takes its name from the Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall at Bienen.

With their desire to create, change, and ultimately bring joy through music, the Galvin Cello Quartet is more excited than ever to explore and expand the possibilities of the cello quartet. Using the limitless range of a cello ensemble, the group's mission is to bring together new works from diverse cultural backgrounds while seeking to establish the cello quartet as a core part of the classical music world.

Recent and upcoming highlights include performances and residencies at Bravo! Vail, Ravinia, Ascent International Cello Festival, Newport Classical, Merkin Hall, and the Walton Arts Center.

The Galvin Cello Quartet embodies virtuosity, with each member bringing their own artistic nuance and acclaimed background to the ensemble. ▼

Block Party Is Coming Up

The

CAMP Rehoboth Block Party will take over the second block of Baltimore Avenue on Sunday, October 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Vendor spaces and sponsorship opportunities are still available (but in limited supply—don’t delay!) at camprehoboth.org.

The annual community event will once again feature dozens of artists, craftspeople, local restaurants, entertainers, businesses, and nonprofits. For a peek at the entertainment lineup and more information about the event, visit page 16. ▼

SPEAKOut

Drag for a Cause

CAMPRehoboth and Delaware Pride are partnering to present “Drag for a Cause,” coming to the Elkins-Archibald Atrium on Saturday, October 5 at 7:00 p.m. The show is dedicated to platforming gender and racial-diverse drag performers and fostering community. Proceeds from the show will benefit Delaware Pride and CAMP Rehoboth’s Prism program; the latter is a group that seeks to provide social, professional, and lasting connections for young adults and those who are young at heart.

The show is produced and hosted by Scarlet Masters, Vice President and Entertainment Chair of Delaware Pride. Scarlet will be joined by drag king Sauvage and Rehoboth diva Jenell Collins.

Tickets are $20 and available at camprehoboth.org/events.  ▼

Bear “Wins” the Battle of the Bachelors & Bachelorettes

On Sunday, August 5, Aqua hosted the annual Battle of the Bachelors and Bachelorettes to benefit CAMP Rehoboth, featuring swimsuit sponsor BRASHhh. The fundraiser featured a bevy of beauties, and attendees generously donated to see which model could raise the most funds for CAMP Rehoboth’s services.

In total, the event raised more than $33,000. CAMP Rehoboth extends its gratitude to Aqua, BRASHhh, the bachelors and bachelorettes, auctioneer Lorne Crawford, and the bidders. The fundraiser’s highest bid went to Rehoboth Beach Bears President Jeff Donovan, for $5,000. In recognition of the generous bid, CAMP Rehoboth has donated $1,000 to the Rehoboth Beach Bears’ scholarship fund. ▼

To the Editor:

Did you know that when Delaware has a divided government it has a better quality of life according to 19 measures?

Do you know that Delaware achieved its highest Quality of Life Index ranking in 20032004 with a divided government, when the same political party did not control the state’s governorship and legislative chambers? Delaware has had a Democratic trifecta at the state since 2009. Its ranking in the Ballotpedia State Quality of Life Index has declined since then along with its GDP.

What does this mean to you as a resident of Delaware? It means that the majority party is veto safe and can implement whatever legislation nor take up for consideration bills you probably would have liked to have seen put into law. For example the Republican bills to lower the transfer tax from 4% to 3 meaning when you go to buy or sell a house, your closing costs are lower. Or the bill to increase the income tax exemption for Veterans so Delaware is on a par with its neighbors on how Veterans are treated. Or the bill requiring poorly performing schools to have a remedial plan. Note Delaware ranks third from the bottom of all states in educational performance yet sits near top in expenditure per student. The list goes on with good bills that do not see the light of day. Why? Because the controlling party does not want the other side to have a win. Sure, the other side does not get a win but you the resident are the real victim of this game every time.

So, what can you do? When you go to vote consider the quality of life in Delaware before you vote on party lines. Consider that the election of the other team to positions such as Governor and Lt. Governor, and in the Delaware House and Senate, would restore a divided government in Delaware. And that would be a good thing.

– Michele Forzley Lewes, Delaware

Send letters to the editor to editor@ camprehoboth.com

Pictured clockwise: Scarlet Masters, drag king Sauvage, Rehoboth diva Jenell Collins.

From the Executive Director

You Do You

Each day I hear life stories of how people came to live in Rehoboth Beach and surrounding areas. Each story is unique, and many possess themes of wanting to rid themselves of shame, yearning for freedom, navigating family, and finally finding the ability to be who they are.

In my last job in higher education, I once was having an intense conversation with a colleague. We were talking about a difficult decision I needed to make. This colleague knew me well and was one of those colleagues that could be honest and direct with me. We trusted each other. During the processing of my internal conflict, she looked directly into my eyes and simply said, “Kim, you do you.”

That statement stopped me in my tracks. My eyes filled with tears. It was the first time anyone had said that to me. She was right. That simple statement pushed me to reflect on my values and beliefs, and to act from the core of who I am. I needed me to do me—that was the answer.

Fast forward to SUNFESTIVAL 2024. Yes, there is no doubt SUNFESTIVAL is an important fundraiser for the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center, and we depend on it to keep the Center alive and well. At the same time, it serves as an opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community to come together, connect, and have fun. As I watched people enter the

convention center each night for the evening’s events, it felt like a homecoming. There were hugs and smiles; friends meeting friends.

We

and instead of calling people out we’ll call them in so they can see and feel our collective light.

In describing the SUNFESTIVAL scene, a first-timer said, “It was so wonderful to watch people enter this queer space, the convention center, and be free to be themselves. They automatically shed the judgment and expectations of the outside world and let their queerness shine. It was such a fun scene, there was so much light and laughter.”

BY KIM LEISEY, PHD

As I savored this year’s SUNFESTIVAL love, the lyrics to a Jason Mraz song, “You Do You,” bounced around in my head:

You do you and I’ll do me

Together we’ll make harmony

Together we’ll make the world go ‘round ‘Round, ‘round, ‘round

You do you and I’ll do me

Together we’ll make harmony

Together we may dance differently but it’s all good.

CAMP Rehoboth volunteers, Board members, and staff work every day to ensure that “you can do you.” We want all LGBTQ+ people to be free from shame and judgment. Brené Brown says, “If you put shame in a petri dish, it needs three ingredients to grow exponentially: secrecy, silence and judgment. If you put the same amount of shame in the petri dish and douse it with empathy, it can’t survive.”

As we work across southern Delaware, there will be no secrets, silence, or judgment. We at CAMP Rehoboth will work with empathy and instead of calling people out we’ll call them in so they can see and feel our collective light. Join us on this journey. In the meantime, “you do you.” It makes us smile! ▼

Kim Leisey, PhD, is Executive Director of CAMP Rehoboth.

LGBTQ+

Exclusive TRAVEL EVENTS

Travel Expo

Tuesday October 8, 2024 2pm – 5pm

Cambria Hotel 17222 Hood Road | Rehoboth Beach

We invite you and your travel loving friends to meet travel experts, explore exciting destinations, and find exclusive travel offers tailored for the LGBTQ+ community at this fun and informative LGBTQ+ Travel Expo, to benefit CAMP Rehoboth.

Don’t miss out on your chance to plan the adventure of a lifetime! SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS!

* SCAN for Tickets or Donate $10 per person at the door day of! Each $10 per person CAMP donation is matched 100% by Accent on Travel.

African Safari Night

Tuesday October 29, 2024 4pm – 7pm

CAMP Rehoboth Community Center 37 Baltimore Ave | Rehoboth Beach

Join us for an exclusive evening dedicated to our LGBTQ+ travelers who dream of the wild, untamed beauty of Africa. Experience a night of adventure and camaraderie as we explore the wonders of African safaris.

Co-hosted by Accent on Travel and our preferred partner Kevan Cowie, Director of Sales, for African Travel. Discover the Heart of Africa with Us!

RSVP REQUIRED, AS SPACE IS LIMITED: amanda@accentontravel.com or 302-703-0126

302-278-6100 accentontravel.com 37156 Rehoboth Ave Ext Rehoboth Beach, DE Corner of Coastal Hwy & Rehoboth Ave

PLENTY OF FREE PARKING! Meet our Partners in Travel!

President’s View

How it’s Made—SUNFESTIVAL

For those living in, near, or visiting Rehoboth Beach, SUNFESTIVAL (CAMP Rehoboth’s largest fundraiser of the year) is how more than 2,000 people observed the proverbial changing of the summer season this year. For history buffs as well as those who were not yet born, the first Sundance (renamed SUNFESTIVAL in 2021) launched in 1988 as a way to celebrate co-founders Murray Archibald and Steve Elkins’ 10-year anniversary and fundraise for HIV/AIDS. While the event has grown from a one-night dance into a two-night event over the years, the amount of blood, sweat, and tears probably has not doubled.

I love to watch shows like Inside the Factory and How It’s Made because they provide a behind-the-scenes look at the complexity involved with taking a product from concept to the marketplace. Join me on this peek behind the curtain of SUNFESTIVAL.

11 Months Out—Planning Begins: Planning for the next SUNFESTIVAL begins two weeks after the event when the staff and members of the volunteer committee meet to conduct a debrief on what worked well. And, on what changes can help improve the experience for attendees, meanwhile ensuring CAMP Rehoboth reaches its fundraising goal by minimizing expenses.

We heard you: Based on last year’s audience feedback, we shortened the Saturday night program by having a shorter opening act and only one headliner this year. This proved to be a winning combination as many people commented on how smoothly the first night flowed.

6 Months Out—Execution Begins: In the words of Hillary Clinton, “it takes a village” to pull off SUNFESTIVAL. What many people do not realize is CAMP has only seven full-time staff members (one of whom is dedicated solely to the CAMPsafe program). We rely on hundreds of volunteers to provide additional capacity and capability related to day-today operations—and to events. SUNFESTIVAL execution starts by identifying

overall committee co-chairs who can help the staff with the various functional tasks required to successfully pull off SUNFESTIVAL. Thank you to this year’s co-chairs, Board Members Mike Deflavia and Lewis Dawley (committee members for seven-plus and three years, respectively), for helping staff oversee the various subcommittees. Collaboration is key to ensuring the various moving parts work together.

Did you know: Two people win the

We set high standards for ourselves, and the community expects us to up our game to stay relevant.

longest serving volunteer awards: Jeff Smith (20+ years) and Chris Beagle (19 years). Now that’s commitment!

A common misconception: Some people ask why so many volunteers are needed given CAMP Rehoboth has more staff than ever before. The truth is, we have only two additional staff members than in the previous five years. And, the event has become more multifaceted. We set high standards for ourselves, and the community expects us to up our game to stay relevant. Achieving both requires identifying volunteers who can supplement staff expertise.

A perfect example: For the first 30 years, the look-and-feel of the event was the vision of co-founder and acclaimed artist Murray Archibald. I can remember sets filled with bright colors, fabric, and lighting that transformed the convention center venue from prom dance boring to WOW! When Murray became less involved, the committee strove to modernize Murray’s concept by asking marketing and creative design executive Michael Fishman to come on board and (along with Chris Beagle) do his magic. The result included the dazzling digital light production that brought Lady Gaga

BY WESLEY

concert quality to this year’s dance.

Labor Day Weekend—Show time:

This is when the rubber meets the road and months of planning become reality. Starting the Thursday before SUNFESTIVAL, the finishing touches include training the volunteers, ensuring police and EMTs are ready to ensure everyone’s safety, lighting/sound/décor installation (kudos to Board Member Teri Seaton for your production management), set-up, and breakdown. Despite the long days, getting across the finish line is only possible because of everyone’s collective passion for making the world a better place for LGBTQ+ people in southern Delaware (and beyond).

A round of applause: I would like the staff to take a bow for going above and beyond the call of duty by maintaining daily operations at CAMP throughout the week, and then shifting to the Convention Center, ready to greet guests on both Saturday and Sunday nights. We owe you a debt of gratitude.

A special shout-out: Thank you to everyone on the SUNFESTIVAL committee for your service to our community, especially Chris Beagle who picked up the torch from Murray. Chris is joined by a dedicated group of volunteers who return year after year: Keith Petrack and Michael Fetchko, Lorne Crawford, John Hackett, Brenda Dunn and Karen Anderson, Doug Sellers, Jim Mease, Joe Vescio, John Michael Sophos, Barb Ralph, Mark Eubanks, Mark Lenard, Karen Laitman, Peter Garneau, Robert Ponzini, Bob Robinson, and Jeff Smith, along with everyone listed in the Thank You ad on pages 14 and 15.

Last but not least: Words cannot express our appreciation for our longtime sponsors who have been with us for many years. Your generosity knows no bounds. ▼

Wesley Combs is CAMP Rehoboth Board President.

Do you tinkle when you laugh, sneeze, cough, or exercise?

Do you constantly wake up at night to go to the bathroom?

Do you feel like you need to pee, but can’t go once you try?

Do you sometimes just can’t get to the bathroom quick enough?

Do you carry around extra underwear, just in case?

Do you notice blood in your urine?

Do you feel pain when you start to go to the bathroom?

Is your worry starting to take over your daily life?

Brandywine Urology Consultant’s Dr. Alice Y. Wang, MD, is Fellowship trained in Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery who, depending on your symptoms, can provide a variety of treatment options ranging from lifestyle changes, minimally invasive treatments or surgical operations. Dr. Wang is accepting male and female patients in all three offices. Please contact the office today to schedule your conversation with Dr. Wang.

Brandywine Urology Consultants, Delaware’s leading urological practice, delivers comprehensive urological solutions for men and women enabling them to remain in Delaware throughout the duration of their treatment. Brandywine Urology Consultants team of Surgeons and Advanced Practice Providers specializes in urinary cancer care, reproductive and sexual health, bladder and kidney dysfunction, chronic urinary tract infections and prostate health.

Dr. Alice Y. Wang, MD

Vice President’s View

Connections with Benefits

Arecent opinion piece in the September 1, 2024, edition of the New York Times by David French, entitled “The Loneliness Epidemic Has a Cure,” led me to wondering whether participating in an organization like CAMP Rehoboth Community Center could actually counter the debilitating effects of loneliness on everyday life. Can engendering a sense of community—such as what CAMP Rehoboth Community Center seeks to build and sustain—be an easy, accessible, and affordable antidote to the effects of loneliness and isolation?

French’s research led him to coin the phrase the “Loneliness Divide.” As French sees it, “The story of modern America—especially for working-class Americans who did not go to college— is a story of declining connections, declining friendships and a loss of a sense of belonging. That sense of isolation makes people miserable, and as the misery spreads, it affects our economy and our culture.”

US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy described his own battle with loneliness and its effects on his personal health and sense of connectedness when his first stint as Surgeon General ended. Pointing out that loneliness is more than just a “bad feeling” in his April 23, 2024, New York Times Op Ed, “Surgeon General: We Have Become a Lonely Nation. It’s Time to Fix That,” Dr. Murthy described a feeling of disconnectedness that affected his physical health. In Dr. Murthy’s words, “My first stint as surgeon general had just ended. I was suddenly disconnected from the colleagues with whom I had spent most of my waking hours. It might not have been so bad had I not made a critical mistake: I had largely neglected my friendships during my tenure, convincing myself that I had to focus on work and I couldn’t do both (emphasis added).”

Rachel Cohen, a young policy correspondent at Vox, wrote in her April

26, 2024, column, “Why I Changed My Mind About Volunteering,” that her generation was taught that “real social change would come only from mass protest and collective pressure on governments and corporations.” In this construct, “Volunteering, donating, and modifying one’s personal behavior were, at best, unproductive; at worst, they were harmful distractions from the change we really need.”

“There are few higher and better callings than to forge a bond with a person and provide a place where they belong.”

But, Cohen wonders, does this emphasis on systems and mass protest actually contribute to loneliness and friendlessness? Her answer is to go local, to volunteer. That doesn’t mean neglecting one’s interest in systemic change, but it does mean engaging with people personally and perhaps even forging enduring connections.

As Cohen points out in her article, “One University of Oxford researcher surveyed over 45,000 employees whose companies offered wellness benefits like massage classes, coaching sessions, and mindfulness workshops. The only option that seemed to actually have a positive effect on well-being, the study found, were those jobs that provided workers with opportunities for charity or volunteering.”

For his part, Dr. Murthy proposes a multi-pronged antidote to loneliness and isolation. At the top of this list is strengthening social infrastructure, which he defines as “the programs, policies, and structures that aid the development of healthy relationships. That means supporting school-based programs

BY LESLIE LEDOGAR

that teach children about building healthy relationships, workplace design that fosters social connection, and community programs that bring people together (emphasis added).”

French posits that, while millions of Americans are lonely, feeling sad, mad, stuck, and alienated from their communities, “friendship can help fix each of those problems. With fellowship comes joy. With connection comes opportunity. There are few higher and better callings than to forge a bond with a person and provide a place where they belong.”

The answer to my initial question is therefore yes: the sense of community that we feel and build as members and volunteers at CAMP Rehoboth is very real and very good for our physical and spiritual selves. When we came together this past Labor Day weekend to laugh and dance at SUNFESTIVAL, when we gather every April to play, learn, and dance at Women’s FEST, and when we attend one or more of the many programs that CAMP Rehoboth has to offer year-round, we are helping ourselves feel less lonely, more connected, and more socially engaged and active. And that’s a good thing for both ourselves and our community.

Dr. Murthy concludes that, “Every generation is called to take on challenges that threaten the underpinnings of society. Addressing the crisis of loneliness and isolation is one of our generation’s greatest challenges. By building more connected lives and more connected communities, we can strengthen the foundation of our individual and collective well-being and we can be better poised to respond to the threats we are facing as a nation.” And that’s a core reason to be a member of and participate in CAMP Rehoboth. ▼

Leslie Ledogar is CAMP Rehoboth Board Vice President.

Fun Fact

Over 100 women from the Rehoboth area will be joining us on our Coral Jubilee Caribbean Cruise: 35 Years of Olivia Travel (Mar 29 –Apr 5, 2025)! Book your cabin today!

CAMPNews

ALLIANCE Celebrates Life’s Milestones

“Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?” is just one of the questions posed by the ALLIANCE singers of CAMP Rehoboth Chorus, presenting “That’s Life,” a review in song of the milestones in life, led by Doug Yetter with accompaniment by Dave Zipse. Remember beginnings and endings with “Sunrise, Sunset.” Celebrate love with “The Greatest Love of All,” and inclusivity with “Born This Way.” Have fun with “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da.”

ALLIANCE will present three concerts: Friday, September 27, and Saturday, September 28, at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, September 29, at 3:00 p.m. All concerts are at Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach Delware. Tickets are $25 and available at camprehoboth.org and at the door. ▼

VOLUNTEER AT CAMP REHOBOTH

Calling all new volunteers, and all interested in volunteering at the CAMP Rehoboth Block Party! Join us for the Volunteer Opportunities Meeting on Tuesday, October 8, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting is facilitated by the Volunteer Development Committee (VDC) and is a great chance to meet new community members and learn about the wide range of opportunities available through CAMP Rehoboth.

Register now at camprehoboth.org/volunteers.▼

CAMP Poetry Slam

Calling all poets! CAMP Rehoboth’s theater program will host a CAMP Poetry Slam in early 2025 and is now accepting submissions. This will be an opportunity for poets to read their works during two performances—February 21 and 22, 2025.

The CAMP Poetry Slam Committee will accept up to five submissions from poets through November 30, 2024. Visit camprehoboth.org for more information and submit works to poetry@camprehoboth.org. ▼

Benevolent Community Initiative

Introducing the Benevolent Community Initiative (BCI) coming to CAMP Rehoboth! Join us beginning Thursday, October 3, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., to take part in a monthly Benevolent Community Initiative Community Circle at CAMP Rehoboth Community Center. The Benevolent Community Initiative is an intentional community engagement, education, and healing model. Through a safe and respectful space, attendees come together to ask essential questions to provide compassionate, caring, and honest engagement. This engagement creates shared purpose, values, understanding, and a sense of belonging for participants.

The work of Benevolent Community Initiative was developed by Lori Yadin, founder of Create Safe Space, and Natasha Warsaw, independent facilitators trained by the Center for Courage & Renewal. Each Community Circle is led by a Guide. The Guide for this monthly Benevolent Community Session will be Travis Stevens; the group will meet on the first Thursday of each month.

Travis Stevens is a registered nurse, a nationally board-certified massage therapist, a CAMP Rehoboth Chorus chorister, and a CAMP Rehoboth Chorus Leadership member. He is also a small business owner, an at-large member of the Eastern Sussex Democrats, and an activist for the ACLU’s Delaware Chapter. Travis became acquainted with BCI after attending a BCI Retreat in March 2024, led and organized by Lori Yadin. During the retreat, he participated in several circles of trust and was impressed by the work. Subsequently, after working with Lori Yadin and completing a personal study of Parker Palmer’s work, Travis recognized the initiative’s potential for the LGBTQ+ community and volunteered to guide circles at CAMP Rehoboth.

Register in advance at camprehoboth.org/events. ▼

This Month in Queer History

Check out the latest episode of CAMP Rehoboth’s podcast, This Month in Queer History, which tells the story of gay vigilantes from the 1970s. Armed with guns and bats, the Lavender Panthers patrolled the streets of San Francisco to protect LGBTQ+ people from homophobic hate crimes from 1973-74.

This Month in Queer History is a shortform LGBTQ+ history podcast focusing on the United States and the 20th century. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcatcher at camprehoboth.org. ▼

BY NANCY SAKADUSKI

They Came, They Laughed, They Danced

Record-Breaking SUNFESTIVAL

More than 2,000 people attended the spectacular extravaganza that was SUNFESTIVAL 2024.

From popular opener Corey Andrew to headlining comedian Joe Dombrowski, who caused CAMP Rehoboth cofounder Murray Archibald to say, “My chest hurt from laughing so much,” a great time was had by all. Fold in a record-breaking live auction, thanks to the talents of auctioneer Lorne Crawford, and you have an unforgettable evening. The night of dance had its own surprises in a convention center transformed by Michael Fishman, Chris Beagle, and their team of magicians.

Of the weekend’s festivities, CAMP Rehoboth Executive Director Kim Leisey said, “It was a fabulous time—all thanks to our amazing CAMP Rehoboth volunteer and staff teams.” Indeed, thanks to scores of sponsors and volunteers, led by cochairs Lewis Dawley and Mike DeFlavia, SUNFESTIVAL 2024 was, well, we think Carole S-T. nailed it with her Facebook comment, “WOWSER.”

Speaking of Facebook comments, quite a few people took the time to chime in….

Ruth K.: That took a lot to pull off so thank you to everyone that was involved! I had a blast tonight and I’m going to France!

Holly L.: It was a fantastic weekend full of fun, and love was definitely in the air!

Fay J.: I was thrilled to be there, laughed my head off, and I stand in awe of the generous donors and wonderfully generous bidders. My heart is full!

Annette N. S.: It truly was a great night full of love and laughter!

Brian K. G.: I thought the venue looked amazing and possibly the best thus far. Bravo!

Todd M.: My first time to attend and this was an exceptional event!

Angelo C.: It’s the highlight of the summer. Looking forward to next year!

Michael S.: Everyone was talking about how much fun they had!  ▼

camp rehoboth thanks our sponsors for their generous support of sun festival

Ruby sponsors presenting sponsor

Diamond Sponsors

Danny Sebright

Sapphire Sponsors

Greg Albright & Wes Combs

Edward Chrzanowski & Rick Perry

Andy Staton & Patrick Saparito

VIP Room Sponsor

emerald Sponsors

joseph bennett & corey andrew

carolyn billinghurst & carol bresler

charlie, rod, brian & carlos

lewis dawley & greg becker

john hackett & tom newton

lynn johnson

jamie kotchek & craig schwartz

chris lay & mari blackburn

michael linardi & dr. dean tyson

tom balling & rex varner

chris beagle & eric engelhart richard g. bennett & andrew c. frake

jay chalmers & john potthast

kenneth currier & mike tyler

catherine de villada & cathy picard

mike deflavia & tony sowers

polly donaldson

eddie engles & michael holzer

brian fisher & jeff enck

kevin fletcher & mark switaj andrew c. frake & richard g. bennett

tommy gibson & randy marshall

joann glussich realtor, keller williams realty & suzanne krupa

ken green, joe kearney & andy benson

evelyn maurmeyerin memory of natalie moss

fran o’brien, david gifford, chris hughes & ken swarts

robert patlan & gordon tanner porter & gordon family

debbie & leslie and diane & jen

gary seiden & bashir amanat

camp supporters

steve hayes & nick parash

jon kaplan

melissa & amanda kaufman

krafty/cox/hodges

cliff lassahn

jim mease & philip vehslage

brian miller & will feliciano

ocean downs casino

mark oconnor & scott wistner

sandy oropel & linda frese

sandra pace

david park, clarence pineda & brett

wolfgang

keith petrack & michael fetchko

tyler prete & jeff brydzinski

timothy price & jerry sealy

phillip rathbun & tom skeen

rehoboth beach dental

Sondra N. Arkin

Jon Dauphine & Marc Charon

Rodney Street Realty, LLC

BEER sponsor Auctioneer

Water sponsor

media sponsors

rolando rivas-camp & john james

matthew rogers

doug sellers & mark eubanks

andrea sharrin & nahid mazarei

nancy & robert sher

scott silber & albert drulis

brian smaul

derek thomas, brian shook, & william clark

the truehearts

christopher walsh & timothy murphy

michael & angel welborn

christopher yochim

beth yocum & deb kennedy

their camp rehoboth thanks our hosts & volunteers for their generous support of sun festival !

host couples

glen abrams & joe buches

matt alion & matt blocher

lynden armstrong & noah cohen

joel t. berelson & charles t. maples

tim & meredith birrittella

jane blue & louisa watrel

ron bowman & john swift

bruce brown & joseph ilardi

russ bulkley & jose padilla pat catanzariti & carole ramos

jim chupella & jim wigand

michael clay & chuck

mcsweeney

bruce & nick

wesley combs & greg albright

carl cox & darin

henderson

jeff dakin & tom ciuba

dennis diaz & michael ewald michael dick & michael maloon

jeff & gregg digregorio

diane dixson & pamela

baker allen fielding

david & marti garrett

joe gfaller & kraig turner

patrick hamilton & fernando penaloza

gary d & christopher hartman

chip hatchell & earl harvey

dan hicks & john mccall

terry & mike

julio hubert

tony incalcatera & james buswold

andy & steven jaskulsky

dennis konzelman & jeffrey wilson

eric korpon & steven haber

todd loveland & toby dunbar

paul maisano & roger duryea

lynette matson & laure larkin

david mcauley, daniel johnson amy mike

marvin miller & dan kyle

lon & angelo the disco

head boyz

patrick monahan, mansour

abu-rahmeh

kay morton

dennis morgan & paul christensen

donna ohle & sue gaggiotti

bob palandrani & jim lawrence

monica parr & emilie paternoster

brian powers & chris rinaldi

michael ryan

sean scott & michael grochocki

nancy & robert sher

dennis & edsel

mr. chuckle’s guests p body

david smith & kenn williams

frank g surprenant

carlos taylor & rob robertson

dave thomas & david tiburzio will tuttle leon vignes & jonathan lockerby

lori & sandra waldeewarden

danny watkins & micah shockney

tim y. & ken w.

karen anderson

brett appelbaum

judith ashbrook

christian armstrong

chris beagle

greg becker

chris bowers

colleen brenington

sharon brosnahan

scott burdette

joe burton

yvonne cipressi

Lorne Crawford

steph dalee

jeff dannis

graeme davis

lewis dawley

ricky dediminico

mike deflavia

richard dietz

karen doctor

brenda dunn

host individual anthony bernal

steve b tony burns

david camorali

paul cline

ward ellinger

eddie engles

michael fishman

jack harman

carl horosz

mark kehoe

ruth kloetzli

holly lane

lori’s oy vey cafe

kathy miller

jason mobley

darren mehay

jan neiman

glenn parr

jake pokita

michael poretti

barbara ralph peter rosenstein

james schmidt

paul seyfert

bryan sherman

chelmo tasca

paul g weiner

robert zelinsky

thank you, sun festival volunteers!

rich dupela

chris durr

frank echols

aj eckman

diane eggleton

eric engelhart

mark eubanks

michael fetchko

michael fishman

kate galloway

peter garneau

chad tyler green

tara gush

john hackett

eric hastings

daniel hayes

sarah herrmann

bob horne

john james

sharon kanter

karen laitman

mark lenard

chip logan

kim lokhard

liz lokhard

chris maddox

michelle manfredi

marce mccollum-martin

jim mease

nate metz

barry moshinski

kim nelson

denise page

jennetta payden

michael payne

keith petrack

robert ponzini

darius price

quinn

deb quinton

barb ralph

bob robinson

howard rothstein

meridith rothstein

pamela rule

doug sellers

mark shaw

kelly sheridan

lori simmons

jeff smith

kathy solano

john michael sophos

kyle taylor

bri towers

brian tsosie

michael ulrich

charles vandergrift

hope vella

joe vescio

mary ann wangemann

michael white

anthony yeager

kathy zimmerman

BLOCK PARTY 2024

Takin’ It to the Streets

CAMP Rehoboth is set to host its annual Block Party on Sunday, October 20, 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Ahead of the festivities, CAMP Rehoboth caught up with the event’s founder, Chris Beagle, along with co-chair Michelle Manfredi and performer Deb Bievenour (of Off 24).

Plus, check out the entertainment lineup below, led by Rehoboth Beach icon Roxy Overbrooke, returning favorites like Clear Space Theatre Company, and brand new, exciting acts like Sible Sible Stackhouse, a Delaware-based fire performer!

CAMP REHOBOTH: What is the history of the CAMP Rehoboth Block Party?

CHRIS BEAGLE: Outdoor fundraisers have always been appealing to me and soon after being elected to the Board in 2009, it became a personal goal to bring an outdoor street fair-style event to Baltimore Avenue. Over the next couple years, I had several informal discussions with various city officials about the possibility of doing so and, frankly, the best way to get it approved.

Then in 2015, as part of CAMP Rehoboth’s 25th Anniversary celebrations, the city approved our first-ever CAMP Rehoboth Block Party. I’ve been proud to call it “my baby” ever since and as much as I do miss serving on the Board, I hope to continue in a leadership role with the Block Party for years to come. Aside from mother nature forcing us to cancel in 2019 and 2021, and COVID doing the same in 2020, we’ve held seven successful years and hope to make this year (October 20!) our eighth!

CAMP REHOBOTH: How does the Block Party speak to CAMP Rehoboth’s mission?

CHRIS BEAGLE: In the truest sense of the word, the Block Party personifies community. From its inception, it has been CAMP Rehoboth’s largest and most diverse outreach event, embracing not only the Rehoboth community but the southern Delaware region as well, demonstrating our mission to promote cooperation and understanding among all people with room for ALL.

MICHELLE MANFREDI: It’s a great day to bring the community together. You see people supporting local businesses, nonprofits, and craftspeople. When you see the block filled with all types of families from the communities, you feel the true meaning of CAMP Rehoboth.

In the truest sense of the word, the Block Party personifies community.

CAMP REHOBOTH: What are some of your favorite memories with the Block Party?

CHRIS BEAGLE: There are so many! I’d have to start by saying the first moment we “opened for business” in year one. Of course, I cried! We were so hopeful that people would come, and thousands did!

In year two, we added a Dunk Tank as part of the CAMP Rehoboth booths and while we thought many would volunteer to be dunked, only Steve Elkins, Muriel Hogan, and I did. It only took a couple dunks for all of us to realize we were past an appropriate dunking age, so to speak. But we still had a blast!

Walking the block with US House Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester in year three—let’s just say her presence was electric and the crowd loved her!

But honestly, my absolute favorite memories are of the people and seeing

so many coming together, from all walks of life, as one community, and the Block Party being our way of giving the love back! Each year I try to walk the block at least once, near the end, and try to remember how magical it felt seeing the street filled with so many happy faces and so much love.

CAMP REHOBOTH: What excites you about the Block Party this year?

CHRIS BEAGLE: As with all years, we have amazing talent performing at the Courtyard stage. But this year the diversity in the performers is more than ever before! We also have a record number of artists and nonprofits participating. I’m excited to see all of them, and all of you, on a sunny, non-windy, October 20. Happy Block Party to all!

DEB BIEVENOUR: Off 24 is proud that we are able to continue supporting organizations like CAMP Rehoboth! We love the enthusiasm and positivity of sharing music with our community. At the Block Party, we love when the community gathers together to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, and it has always been such a fun event. It is why we live where we do. Love is love!  ▼

ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP ⊲

11:00-11:30 Roxy Overbrooke & Friends

11:45-12:15 Clear Space Theatre Company 12:30-1:00 Off 24

1:15-1:45 Sible Sible Stackhouse

2:00-2:30 CAMP Rehoboth Chorus Ensemble

2:45-3:15 Goldstar (Kerry Hallett & Storm Reid)

3:30-4:00 Roxy Overbrooke & Friends

Words Matter

Keep Coming Out

It was around this time in the fall a few years ago that I was invited by one of my fraternity brothers to his home for game night with some friends. I was a little reluctant to go because I don’t usually enjoy game nights, but I decided that I would go, nevertheless. It would guarantee I’d be doing something other than sitting at home alone on a Saturday night. Another deciding factor in going that night was that I loved his house. It was a comfortable and inviting space. I always felt like I was at home whenever I visited.

When I arrived, I pretty much knew all the 12 or 15 folks who were already there. It was a friendly bunch. Though there was this one gentleman I had never seen before. Perhaps because he didn’t know a lot of the other guests, or maybe because he was just an introvert, he didn’t engage much. He was rather quiet, which was ironic because much of the attention and chatter in the house that night was focused on him. He was ridiculously handsome, and he had gorgeous almond skin with the smile of a Hollywood heartthrob—whenever he’d be so kind as to reveal it.

As the night went on, I learned more about him, mostly from my conversations with other people. He was in his late twenties and finishing up his doctoral program at the University of Maryland. He ran marathons, was a healthy eater, and supposedly just had a kind old soul. I admired him from a distance because I knew he was way out of my league. I had learned from many times of trial and error in the past that men like that were not attracted to men like me. I was a little too out and too sweet for their taste.

To my surprise, the longer the night went on, the more he started to focus his attention on me. While everyone else in the house was fixated on him, he was fixated upon me. Eventually, he and I found ourselves sitting next to each other. We engaged in a wonderful, open conversation that I was not expecting. We fell into an easy place and talked for almost an hour.

BY CLARENCE FLUKER

…let’s remember the power we gain from telling our stories and living out loud.

By the conversation’s end, we found out we had a lot in common. For starters, he and I shared a love for both sports and literature. He asked a lot of questions just about my life and background, how and where I grew up. He was really interested in me being out of the closet and how my family reacted to the news and what my relationship with them was afterward.

Before leaving that night, we exchanged email addresses and said we’d keep in touch. Whenever we did see each other socially, we were warm, and I felt a connection with him because despite his hard and chiseled build he truly was a kind and gentle man.

A season or two passed and he and I found ourselves at another social event together. He shared with me that the conversation we had the night we first met about my coming out story gave him the courage to finally tell his family about his same-sex attraction.

I was floored and asked how that could be? We only met each other a couple of times, and I didn’t think that I could have had an impact on him at all. He told

me that after meeting me and seeing how comfortable I was with myself and the relationship I’m able to share with my mom, he was inspired to do what he had long wanted. He said his mom gave him an open-armed reception and that was the day that he found himself a new freedom.

Living in truth offers freedom like nothing else. Living in truth, I have found, allows other people to seek out and claim truth for themselves as well. As we approach National Coming Out Day, on October 11, and the 45th anniversary of the first National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, on October 14, let’s remember the power we gain from telling our stories and living out loud, and how we empower others when we do it. Keep speaking your truth and keep speaking up for others. ▼

Clarence J. Fluker is a public affairs and social impact strategist. Follow him on X (formerly known as Twitter): @CJFluker or Instagram: @Mr_CJFluker.

BY NANCY SAKADUSKI

New from Delaware’s DMV

In Delaware, your license plate can demonstrate support for pollinators, antique motorcycles, horseshoe crabs, or any one of the many special interests, organizations, schools, and military service groups on the list of “special tags” from the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). But until recently, you couldn’t display your pride.

That has changed, thanks to the work of Eric Morrison, Delaware state representative for the 27th district (parts of Newark, Bear, and Middletown) and talented graphic designer Debra Quinton, who will now have the unusual distinction of seeing her artwork literally on the move.

Representative Morrison felt strongly that a Pride plate deserved to be on the DMV list. “Delaware has over 140 specialty license plates from which to choose,” says Morrison, “and I think LGBTQ+ Delawareans should have a chance to show their pride in our community through a specialty license plate.”

When Deb Quinton got the call, she went to work to design a plate that prop-

erly illustrated the spirit of LGBTQ+ pride. She ultimately submitted four designs. Representative Morrison and his committee unanimously agreed on one of them. “Love Is Love” was added as an integral part of the design.

Representative Morrison went through the process of getting the plate approved by the DMV, and it is now available to order through their website (dmv.de.gov). Morrison emphasizes that it’s more than just a novelty plate. “A portion of the proceeds supports the United Way of Delaware Pride Council, which does wonderful work with Delaware’s LGBTQ+ youth. Improving the lives of our young community members is very important to me.”

Deb has lived in Rehoboth for 10 years and does a lot of nonprofit volunteer work in addition to running her company, It’s a Snap Design, but this is the first state-level assignment she’s been given. Seeing the plate on the DMV website was quite a thrill for her. “We jumped as soon as I found out it was available. I was so excited and of course we went right on the website and bought two plates, so we might be the first two on the road—I’m not sure.”

Although she has concerns that some people may be hesitant to get it due to the political climate, she says, “I’m very proud to say who I am. This is interesting because I don’t usually put any stickers whatsoever on my car—gay or political or religious—but here I am, as loud as day.” ▼

CAMP Rehoboth

Reflections

Learning to Like Being Me

Ifelt invisible in a group; I imagined I was being stared at when walking into a room; I thought I wasn’t very valuable or important at my job; and I certainly didn’t feel attractive in my own skin. My experiences for decades were clouded with those self-deprecating beliefs. I felt isolated in thinking I’m not good enough for the______ (fill in the blank).

While at a dinner meeting with a group of women recently, a young business owner timidly expressed how insecure she felt talking in a group. When my friend consoled her with, “It’s okay. We all feel that way. Right ladies?”, and many heartily voiced their agreement, I was shocked. I thought I was the only female on the planet (not really, but close) who did not feel comfortable in my own skin. The realization that there were others as unsteady on their emotional feet as I was blindsided me. In my mind I believed my situation was unique.

Wanting to feel loved and accepted has brought me lots of sadness and angst. It has kept me quiet when I should have spoken. It has caused me to blurt out inappropriate words when I needed to be silent. In a crowd, I felt invisible and went blank when I was forced to engage in small talk. I missed business opportunities and romantic signals by not feeling good enough. I didn’t feel connected or grounded.

I picked perfect professions to feed my unworthiness. As a writer my stories are the focus, not me. As a personal trainer, it’s all about my clients, not me.

Over the years, I was aware I was not thinking correctly and dutifully hired several varieties of therapists who tried to show me other ways of thinking. I tried changing my thoughts. Nothing ever stuck. Those debilitating thoughts had me shackled for decades. My life goals were formed for things I thought I should have because parents, relatives, teachers, friends, and media stars wanted or had them.

Then the shutdown hit and I found a 42-year-old Indian-American author, Pe-

nache Desai, giving guided meditations on Zoom for no charge. His book, You Are Enough got through to me. Desai explained why I am perfect in my imperfect humanity the way I am. I am okay. Knowing, accepting, and loving myself is the key.

Once I started liking all of me, including my lumps and bumps, brashness and bullheadedness, then it became less important what anyone else thought.

I found out I don’t have to change my thoughts at all. I just have to be aware of them. Once they are acknowledged they lessen and eventually fade away.

The idea of being good enough as I am does not mean I’m settling for mediocrity. It involves recognizing that striving for perfection is not only unrealistic but also counterproductive. It’s exhausting trying to live up to someone else’s definition of perfection. It’s also stressful to believe that the way I am is not good enough. That thought has been the foundation that kept me insulated. It wrapped around my very

BY PATTIE CINELLI

being and affected how I thought and what I responded to. It even influenced what I ate and how I dressed.

As I acknowledge and embrace my quirkiness, and feel more comfortable in my own skin, I don’t feel as invisible as I have in the past. When I walk into a room, I no longer think I’m being stared at. I now have moments when I can look at myself in a full-length mirror and not feel disappointed at the shape of my body, a vision that stuck to me like flypaper for years.

Now criticisms hurled at me are my touchstones for reflection and healing. Instead of being embarrassed by my inquisitiveness I embrace it. My directness (I’m a New Yorker) is a gift which lets me cut through the verbiage and get to the point (it can save a lot of time). Once I acknowledged my bossiness, my need to control, and my tendency towards distrust, I embraced them. Now I’m working at becoming a bit softer and more trusting. I’m learning how to let go.

Ironically, my acceptance and love for myself makes it easy for me to accept and love others. It’s harder for me to abandon that peaceful, content feeling I have from being satisfied with who I am to judge or criticize another. It’s also easier for me to feel a soul connection with every other living being. It feels good.

Once I started liking all of me, including my lumps and bumps, brashness and bullheadedness, then it became less important what anyone else thought. Putting me at peace with who I am puts me at peace with who others are. I’m learning to live like nothing is wrong with me. As Winston Churchill said, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” ▼

Pattie Cinelli is a journalist who focuses on non-traditional ways to stay healthy and get well. Email Pattie Cinelli at fitmiss44@aol.com.

Photo by Dingzeyu Li on Unsplash

Galvin Cello Quartet

October 5, 2024 7 pm

Curtis On Tour: Erinys Quartet with Violist Roberto Diaz and Cellist Peter Wiley November 9, 2024 2 pm

Cann Duo January 11, 2025 2 pm

February 22, 2025 2 pm

Boyd Meets Girl

March 22, 2025 7 pm East of the River

CAMPsafe Serves Our Community

Stay CAMPsafe, Be Protected

CAMP

Rehoboth’s CAMPsafe program

not only provides walk-in HIV testing opportunities at the community center and other locations around Sussex County, it also distributes condoms and safe sex materials to various venues and events in the area upon request.

The final weeks of summer are typically busy with many celebrations and events. In the past few weeks alone, CAMPsafe has distributed over 500 condoms at events such as CAMP Rehoboth’s SUNFESTIVAL, OutLoud Sports Festival, and Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend. Condoms and lube are also available at Diego’s Bar and Nightclub, Freddie’s Beach Bar, Aqua Bar & Grill, and many more local establishments.

Keep CAMPsafe in mind for future events. Contact the CAMP Rehoboth office at 302-227-5620 for more information on becoming a condom distribution site. Help us promote safe sex practices, and together let’s stop the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. ▼

PREVENT HIV & Mpox

FREE WALK-IN HIV TESTING

Free, rapid, walk-in HIV testing and counseling is available at CAMP Rehoboth and in western Sussex County. Testing days/times are subject to change; please call ahead to verify the current testing schedule.

CAMP Rehoboth

37 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE Tel: 302-227-5620

Mondays 10 AM-1 PM Wednesdays 1-4 PM Thursdays .................................... 1-3 PM Fridays 9 AM-12 PM

Addiction Medical Facility - Seaford 1309 Bridgeville Hwy., Seaford, DE Tel: 302-629-2300

Higher Ground Outreach

12 E. Pine St., Georgetown, DE Tel: 302-470-7497

Laurel State Service Center 31039 N. Poplar St., Laurel, DE Tel: 302-227-5620*

*Call CAMP Rehoboth to schedule an HIV test at the Laurel State Service Center.

Springboard Village

411 Kimmey St., Georgetown, DE Tel: 302-253-8246

Scan the QR Code for the most up-todate testing hours and locations.

health+wellness

Play Ball

Start from hello, old friends.

–STEPHEN SONDHEIM

In college, I dated a guy named Andy Kaufman. Not the Andy Kaufman, although he did take me to see the Andy Kaufman, who, in turn, took the entire audience out for milk and cookies after the show. But that’s a story for another time. Andy opened so many doors for me: food, the arts, politics. Until the wee morning hours, we would go round and round on so many issues, fueled by a captured youth’s lust for life.

One night, the Gayner/March version of A Star Is Born was on TV opposite The Sound of Music. The Streisand/Kristofferson version had been released the year before and Andy and I spent many an hour debating the pros and cons of the three existing versions. Needless to say, I assumed he had seen at least one of the versions prior to that fateful night. Andy was in my darkened dorm room watching A Star Is Born, staring intently at the screen. I was next door with friends, partying and practicing yodeling. I burst through the door where Andy sat and asked, “Did he die yet?” Like a slow-motion movie, Andy turned around and shrieked, “You mean he dies?!” I thought I might not make it, at that moment.

I would like to say we stayed connected. But life happened, passions soured, priorities changed, the earth turned. At the time, the break-up was final for me; I asked him to stay out of my life. Fifteen years passed and one day my mom asked if I would be open to hearing from Andy. Unbeknownst to me, he had stayed in contact with her throughout the years. I was a different person—as was he—and yet when we reconnected, all that was so good between us rekindled immediately, unchanged.

Humans are social creatures. Multiple research studies have shown that quality relationships improve longevity by helping us manage stressful life challenges and by encouraging more healthful lifestyles. Relationships run the gamut, from family, intimate partners, and friends, to the local barista who has your order ready as you enter the shop. Staying connected

can provide physical support and a sense of a safe community. Connecting can also open doors to new places, new feelings, and new ways of viewing the world.

Not all relationships are meant to last a lifetime, however. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, we feel socially connected for three interrelated reasons: the function of the relationship, the structure of the relationship, and the quality of the relationship. Function refers to the degree to which the relationship serves a need; structure describes the number, variety, and frequency of interactions; and quality defines the aspects and interactions of the relationship.

Hence, while we certainly enjoy the benefits of the astute barista, we are not likely to continue the relationship should the individual move out of state. The best of intentions does not guarantee a relationship will continue to flourish, particularly as competing priorities demand one’s attention. No longer feeling on the same level or giving more than receiving are signs a relationship may have run its course. Even family members, lovers, and close friends may not last throughout our lives, particularly if the relationship feels forced or disrespectful.

That said, even if inclined to do so, many are reluctant to re-establish contact. In one study, only about one-third of participants would reach out to an old friend, despite having the individual’s contact information and believing that the communication would be appreciated. The overwhelming reason given is fear of

BY SHARON MORGAN

At a time when the world feels increasingly cold and distant, reconnecting can provide that needed security blanket.

rejection, even if the parting were amicable. Another reason given is fear that the old connection would now be a stranger despite a shared past and attempts to reconnect would prove awkward. Some believed they were not worthy or were dealing with issues they did not want to reveal. Most participants, however, indicated a willingness to reconnect, but only if the other party initiated the contact.

Surprisingly, the pandemic highlighted how important even casual connections are, and with lockdown, a renewed interest in reconnecting virtually in the initial phases of the pandemic was demonstrated. One study’s participants had each reactivated five dormant connections during the first four months of lockdown. For many, these reconnections continued to flourish with personal encounters as lockdown restrictions eased.

Individuals reap additional benefits when reconnecting. Renewed friendships can quickly recapture underlying trust, while presenting new experiences gained in the interim. For some, reconnections that transcend the period of childhood to adulthood allow for the rekindling of the innocence of youth once shared. Reigniting relationships may present new or alternative ways to meet life’s challenges. Research has shown nostalgia is a potent antidote to loneliness. Trips down memory lane can be therapeutic. At a time when the world feels increasingly cold and distant, reconnecting can provide that needed security blanket.

We lost Andy at 64 to stomach cancer; he was about the same age his father

was when he died of the same disease. When Andy came back into my life, we were each married but had not yet had children. We were able to share those experiences and enjoy the raucous sounds of boys roughhousing and dogs barking. In college, Andy introduced me to The Rocky Horror Picture Show. We also shared a love for Looney Toons, Mel Blanc, and Mel Brooks. To this day, when my son is feeling down, he watches one of the two monster movies given to him by his Uncle Andy: the aforementioned Rocky Horror or Young Frankenstein.

A year after he and I got matching

V Is for Vaccination!

And there are oh, so many on offer. Below are just a few.

WHAT: THE ANNUAL FLU SHOT (or for some folks, nasal spray)

WHO: Most people age six months or older

AGAIN?!: Yes—as you (probably already) know full well. Think of this as an annual event. Just as with COVID, the resistance to ‘flu viruses gained from vaccination in prior years or through having had ‘flu decreases over time. CAMP Rehoboth is partnering with Bayhealth to offer free, standard (not senior) flu shots this year to adults age 18 or older; you can register at camprehoboth.org/ events.

BENEFIT: Prevents serious disease, hospitalization, and death

WHAT: 2024-2025 COVID-19 VACCINE

WHO: Most people age six months and older

AGAIN?!: Yes, again, even if you’ve been vaccinated in the past, and/or have had COVID. Protection gained from vaccination (or disease) decreases over time.

tattoos, my ex and Andy were in his hot tub, where it was noted that he had a tat eerily like mine, like, what a coincidence! To which Andy, in a most serious manner replied, “Really?” His wife said she didn’t mind us getting together, but please, no more body art. We were so blessed with spouses who—even though they didn’t quite understand it—knew how important Andy and I were to each other.

Andy was a rabid baseball player, little league umpire, middle school coach and Yankees fan. In a six degrees of separation scenario, we found out that one of his adult summer league baseball compadres

health+wellness

was the teen lifeguard who once helped a scared 14-year-old after she put her arm through a glass door. That young girl would become my wife. None of these shared experiences and memories would have occurred had Andy and I not reconnected. So each spring as the fields get manicured, I think of my dear friend. And I will always play ball. ▼

Sharon A. Morgan is a retired advanced practice nurse with over 30 years of clinical and healthcare policy background.

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

Like other coronaviruses, the one that causes COVID mutates often, and past exposure may not protect you from the currently circulating strains of the virus.

BENEFIT: Prevents severe disease, hospitalization, and death

WHAT: RSV VACCINE

WHO: Most adults age 75 or older; adults age 60-74 who are at increased risk from RSV (cdc.gov/rsv/vaccines) (There also are RVS vaccines to protect infants from severe RSV.)

AGAIN? No. Beyond initial vaccination, additional doses are not currently recommended.

BENEFIT: Prevents serious disease, hospitalization, and death

WHAT: TWO-DOSE MPOX VACCINE

WHO: People who fall into higher-risk categories (cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/vaccines) and who have never had mpox. (If you’ve recovered from mpox, you do not need a vaccine.)

AGAIN?: No. Once the two-dose regimen is complete, no subsequent booster is currently recommended.

LET’S STAY CONNECTED!

BENEFIT: Prevents—or substantially reduces the severity of—mpox.

WHAT: TWO-DOSE SHINGLES VACCINE

WHO: Most adults age 50 or older; immunocompromised adults age 19 and older

AGAIN?: No. Once the two-dose regimen is complete, re-vaccination is not currently recommended.

BENEFIT: Prevents—or substantially reduces the severity of—shingles and post-herpetic neuropathy. ▼

Youth Crisis Support: Crisis intervention services for children under 18. Parents and caregivers are connected to a crisis clinician. Available 24/7. Call 800-9694357 or text DE to 741-741.

988: Free, confidential support and resources for anyone in distress. Available 24/7. Call 988.

Delaware Hope Line: Free coaching and support. Links to mental health, addiction, and crisis services. Available 24/7. Call 833-9-HOPEDE (833-946-7333).

All of CAMP Rehoboth’s programs, services, and events are listed here: camprehoboth.com/community-calendar. Please visit the site often to ensure you have up-to-date information on what is being offered—and when. ▼

CAMP REHOBOTH MEMBERSHIP

CAMP Library Chronicles

BY GLENN LASH

RAINBOW MEMBERS RECEIVE:

• Basic Membership Package

- Advance ticket sales to CAMP Rehoboth events

- Recognition in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth

- Rainbow Member window cling(s)

- Weekly “What’s Happening at CAMP” email

• Discount on CAMP Rehoboth Event Tickets for Levels Green and above (as noted)

• Free Health Screenings, Counseling Services, and Support Groups

• Youth, Adult and Senior Programs, Services and Outreach

• The satisfaction of knowing you are helping others!

PAY ANNUALLY or MONTHLY

☐ PURPLE LEVEL ☐ $2400 annual or ☐ $200 monthly

Basic + 25% ticket discount and one 1/4 page ad in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth

☐ INDIGO LEVEL ☐ $1200 annual or ☐ $100 monthly

Basic + 20% ticket discount

☐ BLUE LEVEL ☐ $900 annual or ☐ $75 monthly

Basic + 15% ticket discount

☐ GREEN LEVEL ☐ $600 annual or ☐ $50 monthly

Basic + 10% ticket discount

☐ YELLOW LEVEL ☐ $300 annual or ☐ $25 monthly

☐ ORANGE LEVEL ☐ $180 annual or ☐ $15 monthly

☐ RED BASIC ☐ $50 annual or ☐ Basic Dual/Family, $85 annual

☐ YOUNG ADULT (18-25 years old) ☐ $25 annual

NAME PARTNER/SPOUSE NAME ADDRESS

EMAIL 1 CELL 1

EMAIL 2 CELL 2

HOME PHONE

☐ Enclosed is my check payable to CAMP Rehoboth for the full annual amount.

☐ Please charge my Recurring Monthly or Annual Membership fee to:

CREDIT CARD NUMBER VALIDATION CODE EXP. DATE

SIGNATURE DATE

CORPORATE MATCHING

EMAIL

EXPECTED

Famous Firsts

“When I visit schools, most now have at least one ‘gay couple’ and, importantly, the rest of the school doesn’t seem to give a flying fig.”

–JUNO DAWSON

British transgender author Juno Dawson’s nonfiction work, This Book Is Gay, tied for 10th-most banned book in the US in 2022. It was this quote that got me wondering… could queer lit have anything to do with the burgeoning normality of LGBTQ+ students within educational institutions? Yes, I do ponder these things. Spotlight on LGBTQ+ novels set in schools. Before the 2000s, some authors—unafraid to take on the subject—nonetheless wrote under pseudonyms. Others waited to publish their work decades after having written them. Often, the mysteries of same-sex attractions were so hidden that one’s gaydar had to be at AN/FPS-85 levels. But then, the protagonist had to suffer a tragedy—usually death—to make the subject palatable for the populace.

All that has changed! In 2001, Alex Sanchez began his trilogy (Rainbow Boys, Rainbow High, and Rainbow Road) in which three main characters struggle with, accept, then share with the school their Pride. In 2018, People Like Us, by Dana Mele, was published—lesbian characters are not the shocker here. And in 2019 Heartstoppers, by Alice Oseman, has Richter-scale popularity. This year has Jenna Miller’s We Got the Beat: no “flying figs” here.

A few outliers: Olivia (1949) by (originally published using a pseudonym) Dorothy Strachey, which in turn inspired André Aciman to write Call Me by Your Name (2007). Lord Dismiss Us (1967) by Michael Campbell straddles the line of pre-/ post-Stonewall fiction. Reflections of a Rock Lobster (1981) by Aaron Fricke—a biography written while still in high school.

One reason I believe books are being banned from school libraries is…Glinda girl, help me out here:

“Keep tight inside them! Their magic must be very powerful, or she wouldn’t want them so badly.”

Yes, ruby slippers are magic, but books hold a more powerful magic. They can transform thought, move the reader through time, and they can give power to the powerless. ▼

Glenn Lash is CAMP Rehoboth’s Volunteer Librarian Extraordinaire.

CommunityNews

26th Annual RB Independent Film Festival

The

Rehoboth Beach Film Society (RBFS) has unveiled plans for this year’s 26th anniversary Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival (RBIFF). Staying true to its mission of sharing powerful visual storytelling with the diverse audiences of Sussex County, the festival format is evolving to be more inclusive and engaging to a broader audience base.

Said Helen Chamberlin, Executive Director, “This inclusive event will welcome and engage all residents, celebrating the rich tapestry of our diverse community. An added benefit, the programmatic changes will offer filmmakers a fantastic platform to share their works with a wider more inclusive audience while enhancing their reach, and impact.”

The new 2024 RBIFF program tracks are:

Black Indie Voices (community partner, Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice)

Out Loud LGBTQ+ (community partner, CAMP Rehoboth)

Blue Hen Showcase (supported in part by Fierberg Family Foundation)

Your World Youth (supported by WSFS Bank)

Thirty titles will make up the RBIFF program across these new programming tracks, replacing the spring mini-film festivals hosted over the past several years by the Society and its partners.

During the five-day Festival, attendees can select from the 30 first-run film titles and across three venues: Cinema Art Theater, the host venue; the Unitarian Universalist of Southern Delaware church, west of Lewes; and new screening partner Possum Point Players Theatre, Georgetown. VIP passes will go on sale to the public in late-September, and individual tickets by early-October. Sign up to receive Film Festival updates at RehobothFilm.com.

With the new changes to the RBIFF, the Film Society will shift in Spring 2025 to produce an annual special screening event (one show) with each of its current community partners around the calendar month celebrations. These will include Black History (February) and PRIDE (June), with plans to identify new partners to expand special screening events around Women’s History (March), and National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15).

The Rehoboth Beach Jewish Film Festival will continue as a separate standalone four-day program celebrating its 10th anniversary February 27-March 2, 2025, at the Cinema Art Theater. ▼

League of Women Voters’ Candidate Forums

The League has announced five candidate forums scheduled during September and October:

• District 4 House of Representatives, candidates Jeff Hilovsky (R) and Greg Linder (D), Thursday, September 26, 7:00-8:00 p.m., Indian River Senior Center, Millsboro

• District 20 House of Representatives, candidates Stell Parker Selby (D) and Dr. Nikki Millar Ford (R), Tuesday, October 15, 7:00-8:00 p.m., Milton Elementary School

• District 6 State Senate, candidates Russ Huxtable (D) and Kim Hoey Stevenson (R), Tuesday, October 22, 7:00-8:00 p.m., Lewes Elementary School

• Sussex County Council District 3, candidates Mark Schaffer (R) and Jane Gruenebaum (D), Tuesday October 29, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Rehoboth Beach Library

• Gubernatorial Forum candidates Matt Meyer (D) and Michael Ramone (R), Saturday, October 19, 6:00-7:30 p.m., Arts and Science Center Theater, Del Tech Georgetown Campus

Following brief opening statements by the candidates, the forums will focus on written questions from the audience. Note cards and pencils for posing questions will be available at the door and from monitors in the aisles throughout the program. American Sign Language interpreters will be present at each forum.

“We’ve been working for months, arranging venues, contacting candidates, and dealing with logistics,” said Candidate Forum Chair Lisa Welle Malone. “We’re especially excited that the candidates for governor have agreed to come to Sussex County for a forum on October 19.”

Candidates in all Sussex County races have been asked to post background information and their answers to questions on key issues on VOTE411.org, the League of Women Voters’ online voters’ guide. Voters can go to the website and compare the candidates’ views on such challenges as climate change, homelessness, gun violence, reproductive choices, immigrant services, drug addiction, improving public schools, and more specific local issues.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization that does not support or oppose any political party or candidate for elective office. Their aim is to encourage active and informed participation in government and to increase understanding of public policy issues. Go to sussexlwv.org or VOTE411.org for more information. ▼

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

Blues and Bebop and Swing—Oh, My!

If you’re a musician—or, for that matter, if you’ve ever picked up a musical instrument on which you’re even the least bit proficient—you know the enjoyment of just messing around, making up music as you go, riffing, just jamming. You have no musical itinerary; you’re just seeing what comes from the time with both instrument and friends.

This goes double when everything around you has gone South, as they say—which is ironic, since that’s where jazz music’s roots are found: in the South.

The late 1800s and early 1900s were a tough time to be in if you weren’t White, straight, and male. Being gay was seen as “immoral” and the mere hint of it often set off panic that ended up in the hands of the law; the word “lesbian” wasn’t even yet a noun. Women, White, Black, or otherwise, were largely second-class citizens. If you were a Black man, some of your rights were Constitutionally guaranteed, but good luck actually getting them.

With all this chaos, societally, it’s no wonder that people—as people tend to do—plucked the best of the worst of what surrounded them to make something better. Our fashions came from a sense of daring and fun and a heavy influence of glamour. Customs straddled multiple continents. And historians generally agree that southern musicians—particularly those in New Orleans, particularly Creole musicians—took ragtime music, swing, gospel, beautiful harmonies, and a dash of traditional African music and drum lines, incorporated horns and reed instruments, and threw it all in a blender to create “jass.” Which morphed into the finger-snapping word we know: jazz.

So how can you define jazz? It’s difficult; maybe don’t even try.

It’s “messy,” said historian Ted Giola, and that’s about the best description. Jazz surprises your brain, with its quick changes, out-of-the-blue harmonies, unusual chords, and its sometimes

down-and-dirty lyrics that are full of double-entendres, just when you least expect them. It can be cool jazz, hot jazz, soul jazz...sometimes in the same song. It’s spontaneous, improvisational, starting out one way then, on a whim, going in a totally different direction, depending on who’s playing.

Jazz surprises your brain, with its quick changes, out-of-the-blue harmonies, [and] unusual chords…

In its early days, musicians prided themselves on having their own “sound,” one that differed across geographical locations, which means you could cruise the US in your new Model A Ford and hear all kinds of different sounds. There’s blues in jazz and it’s related to swing, but also bebop and just a hint of rock & roll, with latter-day influences from Cuba and Latin America.

Basically, it seems that jazz is everything and it comes from everywhere. And best of all, it was egalitarian: women, Jews, Black people, even gay

musicians were allowed a place in the band. You almost can’t talk about jazz without mentioning the impact of Black musicians Scott Joplin, W.C. Handy, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Louie Armstrong. Singers Billie Holliday, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, and Ethel Waters were Black and female, and influenced the genre; several all-girl bands also left their marks.

White bandleader Papa Jack Laine, known as “The Father of White Jazz,” put Black and White musicians together in his band in the late 1800s, ignoring early social demands for segregation. In Tin Pan Alley, Al Jolson and Benny Goodman, both Jewish, thrived and became stars. Countless songwriters of all races and cultures added to jazz, likely with the knowledge that their songs would be changed with impunity. Honestly, you’d be correct in wondering if you can hear the exact same jazz song live, twice—it is unlikely, but also the appeal and possibly, the point.

Today’s jazz is really not much different than it was a century ago. Electric instruments alter the notes, and technology as a whole has an effect on how we make jazz, how we hear it, find it, and keep it. Songs are affected by the presence of the internet, in both availability and in the breadth of selection. Listeners might argue that there’s a different, faster, harder sound in today’s jazz than what, for instance, Joplin played. But if you ask 10 jazz aficionados, you’ll get 10 different arguments—and all that jazz. ▼

Terri Schlichenmeyer’s third book, The Book of Facts and Trivia: Science arrives September 24, 2024.

Photo by William P. Gottlieb. Billie Holiday at the Downbeat club, a jazz club in New York City, 1947.

CAMPStories

A Liberal Walks into a Gun Shop

It was a hot and humid evening when I, a proud liberal, stepped out of my car, adjusted my glasses and my spine, and walked into a gun shop.

This decision wasn’t born out of a sudden urge to embrace the Second Amendment but rather out of sheer curiosity. I’ve never fired a gun, unless you consider a pink BB gun a real gun. And then there’s that little devil on my shoulder. He’s been whispering to me recently that I really ought to own a gun because Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk’s depravity combined with far-right extremism makes the political landscape today very dangerous. Should a new civil war break out I’ll need to be ready.

So, I signed up for a beginner’s shooting class at Best Shot, a white concrete block facility on Route One north of Lewes. There were no Trump, Second Amendment, or upside-down American flags waving above the place. An unassuming mix of regular cars and trucks were in the parking lot. It looked like a perfect place for a tenderfoot to learn to shoot.

Upon entering, I was struck by the sight of guns everywhere. Big ones, small ones, guns that looked like they could take down a charging rhino, and others that looked like they belonged in a James Bond film. It was quiet and clean. And I thought for a moment how the rows of guns locked in glistening glass cases were not unlike the displays you’d find at Tiffany’s flagship store on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue. Different items of course. Beautiful and pricey.

I was snapped out of my trance when a large man in khaki pants and a blue polo-style shirt asked if I were here for the class. His name was Rusty, and he looked like a former cop. I nodded and followed him into a room set up classroom style with rows of rectangular tables where I took a seat and began sizing up my classmates.

An elderly husband and wife sat in front of me. They looked like President Carter and his wife Rosalynn. Then they

pulled out two matching green semi-automatic pistols and laid them side by side on the table. Whoa, nelly! To my left was a loud middle-aged woman with silver hair and pink highlights and her husband who looked like Woody Allen. Way over on the left side was a guy who looked to be in his mid-20s, very quiet, and wearing an extremely lopsided pair of glasses and an oversized polo-style shirt with an image of the preamble of the Constitution. It was a more interesting group than I’d imagined.

I hit the target, just above and to the left of the bullseye.

In case you’re wondering, I had carefully dressed for the occasion in Ralph Lauren camo cargo shorts, a plain black t-shirt, New Balance sneakers, and the pièce de resistance—a black baseball cap emblazoned with a snarling University of Georgia bulldog logo. It was the butchest look this liberal could muster.

Turns out Rusty was indeed an excop, and he spent the next hour walking us through a set of gun safety protocols. Never point at something you’re not willing to destroy. Finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot. I was impressed. Rusty then herded us to the shooting range, stopping along the way to arm us with ear plugs and protective eyewear if you wanted it. He handed me a Glock 17, a black semi-automatic handgun that is very popular among law enforcement officers. Even unloaded, the gun felt alien and heavy in my sweaty hand.

We entered the shooting range, a long rectangular concrete and cinderblock room at the end of which were paper targets hanging from metal beams. Rusty and his assistants provided additional training on how to hold the gun and load the magazine, which contained the bullets.

Finally, it was my time to shoot. Tak-

BY RICH BARNETT

ing a deep breath, I aimed at the target, a classic bullseye image. I squeezed the trigger, and the gun fired with a loud bang, sending a jolt up my arm that was both terrifying and exhilarating. I hit the target, just above and to the left of the bullseye. Not too bad. Staring at the bullet hole, a strange mix of emotions began bubbling up inside. On one hand, I was horrified by the violence implicit in the act. On the other hand, well, there was a tiny spark of excitement.

As we continued shooting, I began relaxing slightly. The earplugs muted the noise, and the rhythm of aiming and firing became oddly meditative. It was almost like a yoga session, but with bullets. All my subsequent shots hit further away from the bullseye, but at least they were still on the target. Some of my colleagues missed entirely. President Carter and Rosalynn were the bad asses, each hitting the bullseye just about every time. By the end of the session, I had a newfound respect for the skill involved in shooting. And I felt oddly triumphant. I had ventured into a place that is way out of my comfort zone. I interacted with people whose political ideology I couldn’t easily discern because we talked about the shared challenge of learning to shoot and not about background checks or assault rifle bans.

It got me thinking that maybe they’re right, those who say that if we all took a step into other worlds every now and then—whether it’s a gun shop or a drag show—we’d find we’re not so different. Perhaps if we learn to talk to our political opponents, we won’t assume them malevolent and immoral, and we can dial back the hate.

Will I go back again? Maybe. But as I told the little devil on my shoulder: I might know how to shoot, but the only gun I want in my home is a massage gun for my sciatica nerve pain. ▼

Rich Barnett is the author of The Discreet Charms of a Bourgeois Beach Town, and Fun with Dick and James.

Located at the south end of the boardwalk in beautiful Rehoboth Beach

Full custom design center and repair service on premises, most can be completed while you’re here on vacation Exclusive home of the “Rehoboth Beach Bracelet” Official Pandora Dealer Large selection of: 14kt Gold, Rubies, Emeralds, Sapphires, and Tanzanites GIA Certified Diamonds in all sizes Watches including Movado, Raymond Weil, Seiko, Citizen, Pulsar, and Swiss Army w www.harr y kjewelr y.com

The Play’s the Thing Aging Gracelessly

Hello, readers, I’m back from the wilds of New England, having practiced my motto “You don’t stop playing because you get old, you get old because you stop playing.”

Actually, playtime started just before we left town for August.

Bottoms Up!

We were at Conch Island, enjoying my favorite band—Bettenroo—when I heard a loud gong, followed by the theme from 2001: Space Odyssey. Amid a sea of younger people, I was among the few who could have seen the 1968 film’s first run.

So why the gong and Boomer theme?

Turns out, Conch Island offers patrons the chance to do shots, in groups of up to six per shot board, doing “Bottoms Up,” all at once. If a group of 10 accomplishes the task they get the music and a chance to whack at the gong.

Yes! My friends ordered the shots and herded our team to positions along the planks to wait for the little glasses of booze. On your mark, get set, cheers!! We went bottoms up. Warning: If there is a tall person and a short person on the same board, the shorty will wear the whiskey.

Sticky with liquor, I cleaned up while our elected percussionist—Dottie Cirelli—did the honors with the gong. We all cheered the music. Lori Jacobs (also fairly short) made sure no spilled liquor invaded her guitar strings. It was a blast, and I saw no good reason to act my age.

Racing Toward Happy Hour

Once again, I’m talking about Bettenroo. They had a scheduled gig at a club in North Hero, Vermont, along Lake Champlain, which was where we were about to vacation. But the Saturday before their Sunday gig, we had a family wedding in Pennsylvania, meaning it would be nine hours plus gas-food-bladder stops along the way on our schlep to Vermont. Eleven hours if lucky.

BY FAY JACOBS

Wordlessly, not rushing, we three and our SUV were out of the Red Roof and through the Dunkin’ drive-thru 20 minutes later…

Eight friends (including the two band members) were set for the 3:30 Sunday gig by the lake, and we reluctantly told everyone to have the fun without us.

Bonnie knew I longed to be there. I knew Bonnie was steeling herself for my whining and griping about missing it. So, post-wedding we agreed it was a totally lost cause and didn’t even set the hotel alarm clock.

Another dog barking woke Windsor at 6:00 a.m. Wordlessly, not rushing, we three and our SUV were out of the Red Roof and through the Dunkin’ drive-thru 20 minutes later, our wedding clothes in a ball atop our vacation luggage.

Neither of us said boo as we listened to a droning audio book, made a Dover raceway-worthy pit stop for fuel and relief, slipped in and out of a fast-food drive-thru for sustenance, evaded the police (thanks, Waze GPS), and arrived at the ferry to North Hero as the last car aboard, with the vessel pulling out seconds later.

There were surprised cheers at our 3:25 arrival—not so much for being glad to see us, but happiness that Bonnie would not suffer my kvetching had we missed the event.

There should have been a gong to bang and strains of 2001: Space Odyssey. You go, Bonnie!

We’re Here, We’re Queer, We’re Exhausted

After three weeks away, in Vermont, then Maine, and a wonderful trip, we’re nestled in at home recovering. It is one reason we were among the very few lesbians NOT at Freeman Stage for Melissa and the Indigo Girls. Can’t do everything. But we keep trying. After all life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer to the end, the faster it goes!

So have fun. See you around the CAMPus. ▼

Fay Jacobs is the author of six published books and tours with her one-woman sit-down comedy show, Aging Gracelessly.

COME OUT, COME OUT…

Once Is Not Enough

Ican feel the questions brewing the moment I disclose I am queer. The person I am talking to—usually a stranger—will pose a series of follow-ups: when did you know? And, when did you come out? It’s a fair ask, and not always easy to answer. I believe some in society—more specifically nonLGBTQ+ people—assume coming out to be a streamlined process where the proverbial closet doors open automatically, and one is free to live free and proud. As National Coming Out Day approaches, it’s a good time to reflect on why it’s not always so simple.

Coming out of the closet, for the folks who choose to, can be liberating, and it starts with the act of acknowledgement. Some folks know from an early age, while others discover it later in life. Some folks come out when they are ready, on their own time. Some folks never come out at all and carry their truth with them to the final breath. Acknowledging one’s own identity is also not a static process, with a linear path. It can be rife with questions, doubts, and U-turns. It can also be rich with learning, discovery, and enlightenment. The experience of coming out is just as much about revealing one’s identity as it is coming to terms with it.

For many, coming out is also not a one-time deal, and happens repeatedly throughout life. These encore moments happen in classrooms, cubicles, over text, or randomly as life bends and changes across time. These experiences are equally as important, and for some, the emotional echoes of the past may conjure intense feelings.

The crowd outside one’s own closet may also be complicated. The reactions of family, friends, and the broader community play a part in these experiences. For some, coming out is met with acceptance and support. For others, the reaction may be negative, and can lead to rejection, hostility, or estrangement. The fear of damaging relationships or facing discrimination can weigh heavily on a person, often causing them to delay

or avoid coming out altogether. Family can also push and prod someone to come out, or stay in. These acts cause more harm than good and are often at the behest of someone who likely never will have to come out.

For many, coming out is also not a one-time deal, and happens repeatedly throughout life.

This amalgam of considerations, while exhausting, can be a bonding agent for LGBTQ+ folks. The mosaic of stories can create a shared language between strangers. These tales form an invisible thread which binds this community together and can be a welcome relief when the weight of life is too much to bear.

I know this all firsthand. I have known I was queer since I was a kid. I remember admitting it to myself on the night of my seventh birthday. I came out eight years later, as a sophomore in high school. It happened during a teenage fit when I decided to weaponize my identity in an argument with my mother. I scribbled three words on a Post-It® note: “I am gay,” a move which makes me cringe even now. In hindsight, I didn’t have the

BY CHRISTOPHER MOORE

tools to handle this in a heathy manner, and still, I regret doing something so reckless.

Regardless of how it happened, coming out was transformative and eye opening. My friends already knew, and they showed unwavering support. For my family, though, my coming out caused discomfort and strife, which led to distance which exists to this day. Their faith and my identity remain at odds, and neither of us has been willing to bend. This distance helped me form what is now my chosen family, which I have had in some iteration since I was 15. These folks love me as-is—stubborn, honest, open, and proud. Reconciling these two truths, though, has taken years, and lots of therapy.

These types of support play a crucial role before, during, and after coming out. So, too, do access to counseling services, and resources to help folks navigate the challenges they face. Organizations and support groups also provide advice, advocacy, and a sense of belonging. These all help manage the emotional and social aspects of living as an openly LGBTQ+ person.

This year, on National Coming Out Day, take a moment to reflect on your own experiences, and the experiences of others. Celebrate the complicated paths which have been forged by those who came before us and honor your own role in keeping these paths clear for those who will come after. Let’s mark this day by continuing to build a future where everyone has a safe space to figure life out on their own terms and at the same time feel empowered to walk through any door—including the one on a closet—knowing exactly who they are supposed to be. ▼

Christopher Moore is Interim Executive Director of AIDS Delaware. He loves NPR, naughty jokes, and a man who lives in Toronto. Email him at moore.cc@gmail.com.

Celebrity Profile

In Bed with Bruno

Bruno Alcantara, Drag Race, and His Own Brand-New Show

Fans have gotten to know Bruno Alcantara’s washboard abs and million-watt smile for several seasons now as an illustrious member of the RuPaul’s Drag Race Pit Crew, but now Bruno is stepping out on his own and into bed. In Bed with Bruno is his newest venture and it is showing Bruno pulling back the sheets on both himself and some amazing celebrity guests. I sat down to dish with Bruno about his brand-new show, what the road to Drag Race and his own show was like, and what it truly takes to get in bed with Bruno!

MICHAEL COOK: Fans have been looking for a way to get to know Bruno Alcantara more up close and personal and your new YouTube show In Bed with Bruno seems like the best way!

BRUNO ALCANTARA: Honey, it is never too early to get In Bed with Bruno! My bed is the hot spot for everyone and I want everyone to be “in bed” with me!

MC: How did you come up with the idea and format for In Bed with Bruno?

BA: The show gives me both a voice and a creative space for people to get to know me a little better and to connect with me on a different level. In bed is when I feel the most comfortable to be vulnerable. In bed is when I have my deepest thoughts, my dreams, my desires. In bed is when I am up at night dreaming and wanting things to happen

I am an immigrant, I am here for 10 years. When I got here, I couldn’t speak English so it has been a journey. A journey to learn the language, being far away from my family, so this is a real big dream come true for me. I love deep and meaningful conversations; in this show, we put all of that together with the guests. We have some meaningful conversations to get to know them, discuss a few life lessons with them, and what has been working out for them. Then we play some games and we get into some sexy and vulnerable conversations. Of course, I did all of this with the sponsorship of Trojan brand condoms!

MC: You have had some fantastic guests. What was it like having those people join you in bed?

Margaret Cho is very interesting—I was nervous! Some others—Taylor Hale is such a light and when we were filming the show she was my first episode to film. Vincint has such an inspiring

BY MICHAEL COOK

and beautiful story about his life and being a queer man.

One of the very important questions I always ask people in general is “Share with me one life lesson that has been very important in your journey?” I think it’s important for us to reflect on and maybe apply those lessons in our own lives.

…I think RuPaul is such a big star and an inspiring person; I would love to have him in bed with me here.

MC: Let’s manifest who you would absolutely love to have get In Bed with Bruno?

BA: I mean, how big should I go? (Laughs) Of course, people know me from RuPaul’s Drag Race and I think RuPaul is such a big star and an inspiring person; I would love to have him in bed with me here. I would love to have Michelle Visage, I love Lana Del Rey. I think she is very inspiring and unique and the way that she writes songs—that would be a great mind to pick, like what makes you write this way, you know what I mean?

MC: What really attracts you to other people?

BA: Kindness, and good energy. If you are fun to be around and if you make me feel good to be around you, that is a great thing. If you are deep and are able to talk about things that are meaningful. I don’t like much small talk; I feel like we learn in America to be diplomatic. We get people that are so polite, but you never know how true they really are.

MC: You mentioned so many of us getting to know you from Drag Race, how did you originally get your start on Drag Race?

BA: We don’t do anything alone in life, we do it with “angels” who connect us; as they say, you are in the right place in the right time. I worked on Madonna’s tour and my boss on tour is one of Michelle Visage’s best friends. Jamie Laurita is a celebrity chef and an amazing person to know. We worked together on Madonna’s tour for months and when we had this journey he kept telling me, “You gotta do Drag Race.” He connected me and Michelle and then I started talking to production. After that, that is when I finally got to do Drag Race and it has been six or seven years now.

MC: Ten years ago, you were not in the country and did not speak English. A decade later, you are on one of the largest shows in the world. That is the American Dream!

BA: It is wild, I got to do a tour with Madonna and I was in her dressing room, I was a backstage coordinator and set up her dressing room. Moments like that make me not only thankful, but make me sure that I made the right choices.

MC: Five years from now, let’s manifest. In Bed with Bruno is going to be a huge

success, but where do you see your own career going?

BA: I really believe that I was born to be on TV. I wanna do more TV. I would love to do movies and TV shows. I love people too so maybe it is a matter of

having a TV show. I would love to share more of my heart and who I am with people. I want people to see more of me and get to know me better.

MC: Maybe Bruno could become a new kind of bachelor for his own show on WOW Presents Plus?

BA: I would be open to it. I don’t know if we have 25 other men that crazy though. But please send them my way, I will help do the casting (laughs)! I’ve been single for two years so it’s definitely doable, I am here for it! ▼

In Bed With Bruno is airing on YouTube now: youtube.com/channel/ UClseitok6HviABCdNtFv8mA

Follow Bruno Alcantara on Instagram: instagram.com/ brunocalcantara/?hl=en

Photos courtesy Bruno Alcantara.

Out & About

Coming Out Swiftly

When it comes to the cultural phenomenon that is Taylor Swift, my friends and I were always of one mind. “I’m not a fan of her music,” we’d say, “but she seems like an awesome person.”

Whenever I said this, it was because first of all, I didn’t know many of her songs, and the ones I’d heard were catchy and fun, but not something I was ever tempted to play on repeat. Secondly, I had heard a few stories that indicated she was a decent person. The most popular tale was how she gave over $55 million in bonuses to every person on the crew of her Eras tour, everyone from dancers to caterers to sound engineers to truckers. Other stories included how Taylor prompted her fans to sign a petition, urging their senators to vote for the Equality Act, which would have prohibited workplace discrimination on the basis of sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation, and how she re-recorded all of her early albums to retain ownership of them after some allegedly shady dealings a few years ago. All in all, Taylor seemed like a fabulous individual.

I’m not sure why one night, when browsing around for something to stream, I settled on Miss Americana, a 2020 Netflix documentary about Taylor. This film, directed by Lana Wilson, tracks the evolution of a young girl who desperately wants everyone to love and approve of her, to a woman who is willing to endure potentially harsh criticism to say what she believes.

This is mostly dramatized by two events. In 2009, Kanye West interrupted Taylor’s acceptance speech after winning an MTV Video Music Award to express his disappointment that Beyoncé hadn’t taken the prize. When the crowd began to boo, Taylor didn’t know who they were booing, and for a moment wondered if the enormous crowd agreed with him. (They didn’t;

they were booing Kanye, because honestly, who does that? Even Beyoncé was horrified.)

Nine years later, in 2018, Taylor decided that years of being apolitical needed to end. Her Senator, Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), had repeatedly voted against LGBTQ rights, and—even more personally to Taylor—had voted against protections for women against stalkers. As one of the most famous women in America, it seems obvious that Taylor had some feelings about that. So, she

But what I never expected was that she’s funny. Like, really really funny. And smart. And badass. And powerful.

spoke out. She expected a huge fallout from fans, and of course there was some backlash. But there was also lots of support. More importantly, there was the satisfaction of simply saying what’s true and right, no matter what anyone thinks.

After watching the film, I liked Taylor even more. But I still didn’t know many of her songs. The documentary showed some of her writing process, but it was a lot of hesitant singing over chords that were still being figured out. But suddenly, I was curious. And so, I moved straight from Netflix to my Music channel, where I found a collection called “Taylor Swift Video Essentials,” and selected “Play All.”

And folks, I have to tell you—what I saw (and heard) was a revelation to me. Taylor Swift is a brilliant songwriter. Her songs are catchy, profound, and often heartfelt. I’d heard that she wrote lots of songs at the expense of her ex-boyfriends, and there was some of

BY ERIC C. PETERSON

that. But what I never expected was that she’s funny. Like, really really funny. And smart. And bad-ass. And powerful. And did I say funny? And the jokes are often self-deprecating, but in a way that doesn’t make you worry about her so much as nod your head and mutter, “Same, girl…same.”

“Blank Space” casts her as a manipulative vamp who tears through one Ivy League bro after another. In “Shake It Off,” she plays a ballerina who dances, shall we say, to her own (sick) beat. “Look What You Made Me Do” features a finale where a line-up of over 10 Taylors interact in ways that are both outrageously funny and funny-becauseit’s-true. And “You Need to Calm Down” is an empowerment anthem (including a shout-out to her LGBTQ friends and fans) for the ages, featuring cameos from RuPaul, Ellen DeGeneres, Billy Porter, the Queer Eye Fab Five, Serena Williams, Laverne Cox, and everyone else.

And so, this is a coming-out column of sorts. My gentle readers, I am 53 years old. My life up until this point has been rich and varied, but I’ve come to realize something about myself, and I feel I must share it with you so that I can live more fully and authentically. I… (deep breath)…am a Swiftie. And while there is some debate on the origins of my community, nature vs. nurture, I have a hunch that I was just born this way. I understand if you have questions. I’ll try to answer them if I can. ▼

Eric Peterson is Interim Managing Editor of Amble Press, a novelist (Loyalty, Love & Vermouth), and a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner. Follow Eric on Threads at @red7eric.

Upcoming Activities

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD!

Serving Up Millions of Meals

Unique features of the operation are the Newark location’s five-acre farm located adjacent to the headquarters building, and the 3.5-acre garden at the Milford branch.

Food banks throughout the country celebrated National Food Bank Day on September 6. This special day is celebrated each year on the first Friday of September. It brings attention to worthy causes—but the need for monetary or food donations as well as volunteers is crucial all year long as these organizations help ensure that no one goes to bed hungry.

The “Day” is intended to honor the workers, volunteers, and charities who contribute to these efforts. Food banks provide food to the poor, and also promote tools for self-sufficiency. Their efforts rely heavily on volunteers.

Food Bank News estimates that there are more than 370 food banks across the US. They help approximately 42 million men, women, and children who struggle with putting food on the table, for reasons ranging from illness to job loss to a general change in circumstances.

The Food Bank of Delaware (FBD) is a classic example of how a food bank helps a community via its integrated and efficient approach. It boasts some jaw-dropping statistics. FBD took in, either through donations or purchasing, 19,139,498 pounds of food, July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. It distributed 16,322,535 pounds to Delaware citizens. That’s the equivalent of 19.5 million meals.

FBD solicits, stores, and distributes food through a network of “hunger relief partners” such as food pantries, soup kitchens, emergency shelters, and other food providers. Its headquarters is in Newark, and there’s a branch office in Milford.

The FBD web site (fdb.org) offers numerous suggestions on how to make monetary and food donations including fundraising for food, hosting a food drive, and dropping off food donations at one of the two physical locations. The site also includes an Amazon Wish List that highlights most-needed items.

The FBD operates a fleet of trucks and warehouses with industrial-size refrigeration and freezer space. It is the only

BY MARY JO TARALLO

facility in the state with the equipment, warehouse accommodations, and staff to collect donations from all sections of the food industry and efficiently redistribute them to those in need.

Like most nonprofits, the FBD relies heavily on its 8,400 volunteers who take on tasks like sorting food donations, packing bags and boxes, assisting in the food pantry, and helping at a mobile pantry or the organization’s farms either at Newark or Milford. CAMP Rehoboth’s outreach program (CROP) supplies some of those volunteers.

“CROP has sent a team to the Food Bank of Delaware’s Milford facility for a few years now,” said CAMP member Deborah Woods, who used to head up the CROP effort. “We especially enjoy going there in November prior to Thanksgiving.”

Joe Vescio currently leads the CROP effort. “CAMP sets up an event on the web site (camprehoboth.org/about-us/ volunteers), and our volunteers sign up there,” he explained. “Our team goes to the Food Bank on the designated day, and we’re assigned an activity by the Food Bank coordinator. It can vary from sorting food donations, to putting together meal packages for school kids…it all depends on what the Food Bank needs at the time.”

Unique features of the operation are the Newark location’s five-acre farm located adjacent to the headquarters building, and the 3.5-acre garden at the Milford branch. There’s a propagation house, four large greenhouses, a demonstration garden, beehives, fruit trees, and growing space for annual crops. Vegetables are grown year-round. Most of the produce is distributed through the Food Bank’s Healthy Pantry Center. But it is also sold at the FBD’s two cafes, in Newark and Milford, open Monday-Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and Friday 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

“The crops in the greenhouse vary depending on the time of year and the growing history,” said the Milford Garden Coordinator Carolyn May. “Typically, we like to grow crops like peppers, tomatoes,

Pictured above, Delaware Food Bank Garden Coordinator Carolyn May.

Opposite page, Delaware Food Bank Executive Chef Tim Hunter; Volunteers package donations.

cucumbers, squash, and hardy greens in the summer, and then we transition to crops like kale, broccoli, arugula, Swiss chard, beets, carrots, turnips, and spinach in the late summer or fall.”

The Food Bank of Delaware does more than grow, collect, and distribute food. Its new Kitchen/Culinary School offers adults (including adults with disabilities) free specialized training to provide employment opportunities in the food and hospitality industries. It is offered through

a partnership with the Delaware Restaurant Association, and it incorporates produce grown on the Food Bank’s farm.

Executive Chef Tim Hunter has worked for the FBD for 15 years. He has a big job coordinating many of the food aspects of the organization and is especially fond of the training program, which enjoys an 80 percent job placement rate. “The most gratifying part is getting to see the students from the start to the end and seeing the change in each one of them,”

“The most gratifying part is getting to see the students from the start to the end and seeing the change in each one of them.”

he said. “Everyone is different. One thing I tell them is that you need to be dedicated to the program and to yourself or it won’t work.” ▼

Mary Jo Tarallo is a former journalist and public relations professional for various non-profits including a ski industry trade association. She won a Gold Award for a United Way TV program starring Oprah Winfrey.

Photos: Mary Jo Tarallo

It’s My Life

Dog Gone

Let’s get the hard part over with. Greta, our oldest dog, died a few weeks ago. I wasn’t going to write about this. The death of a dog is never a popular subject. But Greta’s death has been a big deal for me, and she featured prominently in my writing and social media, so I want to acknowledge her passing.

The thing about dogs is that you can never really capture how special they are to you. Those of us who love dogs understand that they’re the greatest gift the universe sends our way, but while our appreciation for the species is universal our individual relationships to specific dogs can’t quite be explained adequately. They’re too big, too wonderful, too much to reduce to a handful of words.

Earlier this year, I noticed that Greta was slowing down. “She’s starting to look old,” I said to Cubby. Still, I thought she would have a long old age, taking a few years to wind down. Occasionally, I would think about the possibility of losing her. “But not today,” I always told myself. “Today, we’re still together.”

Every night before going to sleep I would tell Greta (and our other dog, Lillie) that she was the most loved dog in the world. Because it was true. Over the past few months, I felt a growing importance to telling her this regularly, to making her feel special and cared for. I think now that some part of me sensed an ending was coming.

When it did come, it happened very quickly. I took her in on a Friday, concerned about some swelling in her belly. The vet looked at the results of her blood tests and said, “Let’s try a few things and see how she is on Monday.”

I told myself she would be fine. I spent all weekend loving her as hard as I could, hoping it would reverse the effects of her failing systems. She seemed content, even happy, and I was encouraged. But on Monday, the swelling was noticeably worse. More

blood tests confirmed it—she wasn’t going to get better.

I’ve sat with half a dozen dogs as they’ve transitioned from this life to whatever comes next. Always, it feels as if time both stands still and rushes by far too quickly. As I sat on the floor, holding Greta for those final moments, I replayed our life together. I remembered driving with her across the Golden Gate Bridge, bringing her from the shelter to her new home. I remembered the first six months with her, when she hid under

But as dogs have shown me time and time again, there’s always room for another one, always enough love available…

the bed and chewed holes in the edges of the sheets, until she decided it was safe to come out. I remembered driving across country with her to new lives in Texas, Utah, Maryland, and finally Ohio, where she made every house feel instantly like home.

For almost 14 years she was a constant in my life, a daily reminder that you can be loved unconditionally. She was the happiest dog I’ve ever known, except when it thundered, or she saw the nail clippers come out. She had an adorable snaggletooth and a tail that curled up when she was happy. She loved cheese and chasing squirrels. Twice, she caught rats and proudly presented them to us. Once, she was on the receiving end of a skunk, which delighted her.

I acquired my first dog, a black Labrador named Roger, on the Fourth of July in 1993. In the 31 years since, there has been an unbroken chain of them.

BY MICHAEL THOMAS FORD

Greta was the last member added to the family. In the 14 years since, there have been no new dogs and now, only 15-year-old Lillie remains with us. It does not escape me that part of my sadness around Greta’s death is attached to my feelings about a huge era of my own life also coming to a close.

We can of course add another dog to our home, and likely will. But I am keenly aware that I have only so many years left; only so much time for more dogs. There’s far less room in my crowded head for new memories than there is space taken up by old ones. But as dogs have shown me time and time again, there’s always room for another one, always enough love available to make room in even the most crowded bed, head, or heart.

More than once in the weeks since Greta’s passing, I’ve found myself overwhelmed by an intense sadness over the loss of her and the unfairness of how short dogs’ lives are. But I also think about how much living she packed into the time she was given. She never once refused an offer to go outside and see what was going on, never turned down an invitation to join me on the couch, never said no to a scritch. I like to think that even as she closed her eyes for the last time, she was thinking about what a grand adventure she was about to have.

We should all live so well.  ▼

Michael Thomas Ford is a much-published Lambda Literary award-winning author. Visit Michael at michaelthomasford.com.

We Asked; You Answered!

Each year, the Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest challenges participants to write an awful opening sentence for an equally awful novel. This year’s winners can be viewed at bulwer-lytton.com.

In the August issue of Letters, we invited readers to submit to us contest-worthy sentences that they somehow failed to timely enter in the real contest. Below, the fine example we received:

She glanced down at her thighs, which had taken on the appearance of scrapple (and not the soft, cloud-gray, out-of-the-package scrapple, or the tarted-up, IPA-paired snooty-restaurant version, but the cooked-too-long in rancid oil, cracked and cratered scrapple) and thought to herself, maybe I should have listened to my wife about establishing a proper skin care regimen. – NANCY SAKADUSKI

Interested in seeing your deathless prose (or poetry) in Letters? Watch the Opportunity Box (page 3) for invitations….

OUTlook

I’m Kamala-Hopeful

I still believe we listen to our better angels most of the time.

With Kamala Harris and Tim Walz at the top of the Democratic ticket, I feel a sense of hope that I lacked before Joe Biden so heroically stepped aside. Yes, I think what Joe Biden did was heroic—but that’s no surprise, considering who he is. I don’t talk much about it, but during my stint in DC as a Deputy Press Secretary to a US Senator, I always heard good things about Joe Biden even way back in the late 1980s. He was my boss’s seat mate in the chamber. And he is an excellent President. But I digress. We all know Joe is great.

I was talking to my wife about this new feeling of hope I have, and she says she is afraid to hope. She is afraid because of what happened in 2016—when she had hoped, like many of us, that Hillary would win. But, of course, that didn’t happen. What did happen, I think, was a collective trauma many Americans, particularly women, still carry with them. I think the Women’s March in Washington in 2017 was a way we collectively processed our outrage into effective action that first took shape in 2022. It will reach fruition with victory at the polls for us in November.

I remember that 2016 feeling, like the bottom suddenly dropping out of reality into a horrific hunger-games otherworld of chaos, grievance, racism, narcissism, and just plain old disgust. And that was BEFORE the pandemic. It got worse from there. Yes, I remember, and no, I do not want this to repeat in November. Seems to me the only winners would be Christian nationalists, the one percent (of course), and tech billionaires. And that’s if they win. If we win, it will be close, and they will pull out every dirty trick, every October surprise, every way—legal and illegal—to bend and break the law and barge back in.

I don’t want that to happen, so in the interim, I’m choosing hope. And choosing to do something (I’m pretty sure I understand the assignment) by taking action. We all can, simply by exercising our right to vote. There are other actions as well; we can donate

BY BETH SHOCKLEY

money or time, or both. While visions of landslides dance in my head, I know that this will probably be a close election. All the experts say so, but you know what expert opinions are worth when they are wrong— useful as day-old news.

So, I have no predictions, just hope that sanity will prevail, that those who espouse hatred and bigotry will be forced back to whatever hole they hide in, and just go away. Self-righteous, busybody bigots pop up like Whac-A-Moles periodically. I’ve seen it before; every few years or decades there they are again, front and center in groups, and we have to clobber them down with our ideological mallets yet again.

We, as a nation, starting with each individual, have to decide that hate and bigotry and misogyny are unacceptable and not who we are. We’ve done this before, numerous times. I still believe we listen to our better angels most of the time.

I think we can pull this off. Anyway, I have that hope. But I think the road to victory will be bumpy. I’m taking action, I’m going to vote, and then I have to be patient. That’s very hard—especially because there will be outrageous disputes, ridiculous court cases, and other nefarious and suspicious shenanigans. We can count on it. But unless it’s utter armed chaos at the Capitol, I think our laws will eventually prevail, battered though they may be. I think the center will hold. Our flag will still be there.

Please plan to vote on or before Tuesday, November 5. Even if Delaware is a blue state, your vote makes a difference. If you can, help financially in the battleground states. Make sure your neighbors are registered or offer to drive them to the polls on Election Day. Make a day of it!

And then say a silent prayer that we win. In the meantime, I’m going to comfort my wife and try to convince her it will be OK no matter what. ▼

Beth Shockley is a retired senior writer/editor living in Dover with her wife and furbabies.

HAVE YOU UPDATED YOUR BENEFICIARIES?

Are you relying on POD or TOD terms?

Skipping regular review of your named beneficiaries is only one estate planning pitfall. Even more common, we see families rely too heavily on beneficiary designations, including using payable-on-death terms on every account. Over reliance on these strategies can prevent estate liquidity, limit flexibility in successor beneficiaries, create conflict by overriding the terms of the Will, and more. Are you depending on these strategies? There’s a better way.

Elder Law

We help families shelter their savings from being depleted on the cost of long-term care.

Estate Planning

We help families create Wills, Powers of Attorney, and use Trusts to avoid probate.

Estate & Trust Administration

We help families settle the matters of their loved ones.

CAMP REHOBOTH BEACH GUIDE

BEACH AREA LODGING

Atlantic Sands Hotel, Boardwalk & Baltimore Ave

Atlantic View Hotel, Ocean Front 2 Clayton St, Dewey

Atlantis Inn, 154 Rehoboth Ave

Beach View Hotel, 6 Wilmington Ave

302-227-2511

302-227-3878

302-227-9446

302-227-2999

Breakers Hotel, 105 2nd St & Baltimore Ave 302-227-6688

Canalside Inn, 34 6th St 302-226-2006

Rehoboth Guest House, 40 Maryland Ave

302-227-4117 Sea ‘n Stars Guest Suites, 44 Delaware Ave 302-226-2742

LEWES FOOD & DRINK

Visit the Beach Guide Directory on the CAMP Rehoboth website to find links to these area businesses in BOLD. The Guide includes: Food and Wine, Shopping, Lodging, and Services—all at camprehoboth.com.

REHOBOTH RETAIL SHOPS

Atlantic Jewelry, 313 South Boardwalk

New Wave Spas, 20660 Coastal Hwy

Stuart Kingston Gallery, 19470 Coastal Hwy

Unfinished Business, 18389 Olde Coach Rd.

ART GALLERIES | MUSEUMS

Biggs Museum of American Art, thebiggsmuseum.org

Gallery 50, 50 Wilmington Ave

Peninsula Gallery, 502 E Savannah Rd

Rehoboth Art League, 12 Dodds Ln

Rehoboth Beach Museum, 511 Rehoboth Ave

REHOBOTH FOOD & DRINK

1776 Steakhouse, Midway Shopping Center

Aqua, 57 Baltimore Ave

Back Porch Café, 59 Rehoboth Ave

Blue Moon, 35 Baltimore Ave

Café Azafrán, 18 Baltimore Ave

Chesapeake & Maine, 316 Rehoboth Ave

Coho’s Market & Grill, 305 Rehoboth Ave

Diego’s Bar Nightclub, 37298 Rehoboth Ave

Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats 320 Rehoboth Ave

Dos Locos, 208 Rehoboth Ave

Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, 3 South First St

Go Fish, 24 Rehoboth Ave

Goolee’s Grille, 11 South 1st St

Just In Thyme, 38163 Robinsons Dr

Lori’s Café, 39 Baltimore Ave

Loves Liquors, LLC, 305c Rehoboth Ave

Lupo Italian Kitchen, 247 Rehoboth Ave

Purple Parrot Grill, 134 Rehoboth Ave

Rigby’s, 404 Rehoboth Ave

Shorebreak Lodge, 10 Wilmington Ave

The Pines, 56 Baltimore Avenue

302-226-0675

302-227-8484

302-227-2524

302-645-8700

302-227-2050

302-645-0551

302-227-8408

302-227-7310

302-645-9355

302-226-9001

302-227-3674

302-227-6515

302-227-8100

302-226-3600

302-227-2646

302-227-1023

302-226-2739

302-227-3353

302-527-1400

302-226-1044

302-227-7653

302-227-3100

302-226-3066

302-227-6966

302-226-2240

302-226-1139

302-227-6080

302-227-1007

302-567-2726

Grace of God Lutheran, ELCA, 26089 Shoppes at Long Neck

M.C.C. of Rehoboth, 19369 Plantation Rd

302-947-1044

302-645-4945

Seaside Jewish Community, 18970 Holland Glade Rd 302-226-8977

St. George’s Episcopal, 20271 Beaver Dam Rd, Harbeson 302-227-7202

St. Peter’s Episcopal, 2nd & Market Sts, Lewes

Unitarian Universalist, 30486 Lewes-G’Town Hwy

Unity of Rehoboth, 98 Rudder Rd, Millsboro

Westminster Presbyterian, 301 King Charles Ave

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

AARP of Delaware (age 50+)

ACLU of DE—Lesbian & Gay Civil Rights Project

CAMP Rehoboth Chorus—Program of CAMP Rehoboth

302-645-8479

302-313-5838

302-945-5253

302-227-2109

866-227-7441

302-654-5326

302-227-5620

CAMP Rehoboth—LGBTQ Community Service Org 302-227-5620

CAMP Rehoboth Families—LGBTQ parents connect 302-227-5620

Cape Henlopen Senior Center—Rehoboth (age 50+) 302-227-2055

CHEER Centers of Sussex County (age 50+) 302-515-3040

Delaware Aging & Disability Resource Center 800-223-9074

Delaware Human Relations Commission

Housing & public accommodation 877-544-8626

Delaware Information Line 2-1-1Delaware Pride—Community events, annual Pride Festival 302-265-3020

Lewes Senior Activity Center (age 50+)

302-645-9293

Meals on Wheels Lewes-Rehoboth 302-645-7449

PFLAG-Rehoboth—3rd Tuesdays, Public Library, 111 Adams Ave, Lewes

Social Security Administration—Georgetown office 800-772-1213

COUNSELING/THERAPY/LIFE COACH

Jewish Family Services .......................................................

Kevin J. Bliss, Personal/Professional Coaching

Nancy Commisso, LCSW, Therapeutic Services

Time to Heal Counseling & Consulting, Lewes

ELECTRICIANS

Silver Electric

FINANCIAL SERVICES

County Bank, 19927 Shuttle Rd

Jenn Harpel, Morgan Stanley

FLORISTS

Windsor’s Florist, 20326 Coastal Hwy

FUNERAL SERVICES

Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium

HAIR SALONS/TATTOO & PIERCING

Beach Cuts, 214 Rehoboth Ave

Gregory Meyers Hair Studio, 20245 Bay Vista Rd & Rt 1

Stephan & Co Salon & Spa, 19266 Coastal Hwy

HEALTH-RELATED

AIDS Delaware – Kent & Sussex Counties

AIDS Delaware – New Castle County

AIDS Hotline – Delaware statewide

Brandywine Urology Consultants

Beebe Healthcare, 26744 J.J. Williams Hwy

CAMPsafe AIDS education & prevention program of CAMP Rehoboth

Christiana Care HIV Wellness Clinic

Christiana Care LGBTQ+ Health Initiatives

Delaware HIV Consortium - Statewide

Delaware Hospice

Delaware Total Foot & Ankle Center

National Alliance on Mental Illness of DE (NAMI)

Rehoboth Beach Dental, 19643 Blue Bird Ln

Maplewood Dental Associates, 18912 J.J. Williams Hwy

INSURANCE

Eric Blondin, State Farm

Jeanine O’Donnell, State Farm

LEGAL/ACCOUNTING/TRUST SERVICES

PWW Law LLC, 1519 Savannah Rd, Lewes

Steven Falcone CPA, Taxes & Planning

MASSAGE THERAPY/FITNESS

Midway Fitness & Racquetball, Midway Center

One Spirit Massage, 169 Rehoboth Ave

Reiki CENTRAL, thecentralfirm.com

PEST CONTROL

Activ Pest Solutions, 16803 New Rd, Lewes

PET RETAIL

Critter Beach, 156 Rehoboth Ave

302-478-9411

302-754-1954

703-598-2938

302-574-6954

302-227-1107

302-226-9800

302-644-6620

302-227-9481

302-645-9520

302-226-ROBB

302-727-5331

302-260-9478

302-226-3519

302-652-6776

800-422-0429

302-824-7039

302-645-3300

302-227-5620

302-933-3420

302-733-3113

302-654-5471

800-838-9800

302-297-8431

302-427-0787

302-226-7960

302-645-6671

302-645-7283

302-644-3276

302-628-4140

302-644-8634

302-645-0407

302-226-3552

302-408-0878

302-645-1502

302-226-2690

Pet Portraits by Monique 717-650-4626

PET SERVICES

Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 Dupont Blvd, G’twn

302-856-6361

Humane Animal Partners (formerly Delaware Humane Association & Delaware SPCA) ......................................................... 302-200-7159

Little Landmines Pet Waste Removal. littlelandmines.com 302-521-3983

Parsell Pet Crematorium, 16961 Kings Hwy, Lewes ........... 302-645-7445

REAL ESTATE

Allen Jarmon, NextHome Tomorrow Realty

302-745-5122

Chris Beagle, Compass 302-273-4998

Donna Whiteside, Berkshire Hathaway, 16712 Kings Hwy 302-381-4871

Hugh Fuller, Realtor 302-745-1866

John Black, Patterson Schwartz, 18958 Coastal Hwy 302-703-6987

Lana Warfield, Berkshire Hathaway, 37230 Rehoboth Ave 302-236-2430

Lee Ann Wilkinson Group, 16698 Kings Hwy 302-645-6664

Lingo Realty, 246 Rehoboth Ave 302-227-3883

Mark Macomber, RE/MAX Realty Group, 317 Rehoboth Ave 302-584-0815

McWilliams Ballard, Kevin McDuffie kmcduffie@mcwb.com

McWilliams Ballard, Justin Orr jorr@mcwb.com

Randy Mason/Shirley Kalvinsky, Lingo Realty 302-227-3883

Sea Bova Associates, 20250 Coastal Hwy .......................... 302-227-1222

The Joe Maggio Group, 37169 Rehoboth Ave Ext., #11 ...... 302-226-3770

Troy Roberts, Mann & Sons, 414 Rehoboth Ave 302-228-7422

RETIREMENT LIVING/SENIOR CARE FACILITIES

Springpoint Choice, 17028 Cadbury Cir, Lewes 302-313-6658

The Lodge at Truitt Homestead, 36233 Farm Ln 302-232-6372

TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

Accent On Travel, 37156 Rehoboth Ave 302-278-6100

CHEER Transportation (age 50+) 302-856-4909

Jolly Trolley Shuttle from Rehoboth Ave & Boardwalk 302-644-0400

Olivia Travel .......................................................... 800-631-6277 ext. 696

POPULAR LGBTQ BEACHES

Poodle Beach, south end of the Rehoboth Boardwalk Cape Henlopen State Park, Ocean Dr north to Cape Henlopen State Park. Daily parking rate in effect March-November.

View Point

A New Pluralist Age Beckons

Persuading Voters Beats Insults

Our focus on political threats, and the media’s habit of embracing Republican framing to avoid charges of liberal bias, obscures the fact that America is on the cusp of a new age in which pluralism has triumphed.

Just as diversity is a reality whether the far right likes it or not, the truth has a liberal bias. The concept of different races has no biological basis. Women do not need others to make their reproductive decisions for them. Most people identify as either male or female without public authorities enforcing the gender binary, which only pretends to erase those who do not conform.

With their lives, those who are different echo Galileo’s reported response to Inquisitors who insisted the Earth was motionless at the center of the universe: “But it moves.”

In short, there is room for all of us without a lot of supremacist bullying.

The far right does pose a real threat with its efforts at voter suppression and its plans to refuse to certify election results it doesn’t like. Democrats are duly prepared with armies of lawyers to prevent the theft.

But while we cannot afford to go to sleep, neither should we overreact. We have sufficient power to win if we are prepared to use it. We need not be diverted by the relative few on the far left who are determined to be perpetually outraged and believe (like eccentric third-party candidate Cornel West) that America is the greatest threat to the world.

I don’t mean to suggest that yelling in the street is not activism. It is just ineffective. When pro-Palestinian demonstrators screamed at me on Sixth Avenue after the “Three Presidents” fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall in March, I pointed out that they didn’t know me and were not helping their cause.

Christ said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” They would not be needed if people were not constantly warring with one another. As I write, President Biden is working tirelessly for a ceasefire in the Mideast. Whether he succeeds or not, peace requires participation by both sides. Palestinians must renounce terrorism and recognize the right of Israel to

If all of us who are targeted for disenfranchisement stand together, we can overcome the reactionaries.

exist, and Israel must abandon annexation and recognize that brutality toward Palestinians only recruits more terrorists. Loudly insisting that everyone who disagrees with you supports genocide may be cathartic but will neither change American policy nor push the Jews into the sea.

The radicals’ attitude, which is that anything but total agreement with them is a betrayal, is not how the LGBTQ+ community built support for equality. We did it by coming out, organizing, communicating, campaigning, and voting. We did it by participating and nurturing relationships, not by holding one another hostage. From Tammy Baldwin to Pete Buttigieg to Malcolm Kenyatta to Sarah McBride to Danica Roem and many others, we are not only in the game—we are in government.

White Christian nationalists are losing their minds because they can see that minorities they have long despised and oppressed are nonetheless thriving.

As with Trump, growing numbers of people are sick of the toxic MAGA nonsense and are standing up to the

BY RICHARD J. ROSENDALL

radical right. If we were ever the country of their selective and self-serving nostalgia, we are no longer. If all of us who are targeted for disenfranchisement stand together, we can overcome the reactionaries. You might say our need to make common cause is screamingly obvious.

What we need is not to take the power of the Democratic coalition for granted, but recognize it and use it effectively.

One of the great strengths of the Democratic ticket in this year’s presidential election is the positive energy of Vice President Harris and Governor Walz. They know how to handle hecklers while sticking to their message.

The Republican nominee, meanwhile, has no discipline and no positive message. He says Harris is of low intelligence. Aside from his unfitness to pass such a judgment, could he say anything less plausible? He is like an unruly child setting off firecrackers to scare people, but none of them go off. Still, it is sobering that he enjoys more support than makes any decent sense.

Shakespeare writes in Julius Caesar: “There is a tide in the affairs of men, Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune…. And we must take the current when it serves, Or lose our ventures.”

In this case, an extraordinary woman has taken the current. Our nation is at an inflection point. We have only to take the leap. ▼

Richard J. Rosendall is a writer and activist at rrosendall@me.com.

CAMPshots

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

Dancing the Night Away!

SUNFESTIVAL, Battle of the Bachelors, Women's Senior Softball, and More!

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1 ) at Night of Dance, SUNFESTIVAL 2024: Toby Dunbar, Michael Clay, Jason Mosby, Chuck McSweeney, DJ Robbie Leslie, Rachele Gargiulo, Carmen Michelo, Rolando Rivas-Camp, Mary Beth Ramsey, John James, Mike Eldred, Bill Amery, Mike Lucas, Joe Filipek, Larry Richardson, Joann Glussich, Suzanne Krupa, Jamal Williams, Charlie Jones, Dominic Mannello, Clayton Cox, John Krafty, Eric Engelhart, Michael Fetchko, Gary Fritter, Michael Fishman, Chris Beagle, Mike DeFlavia, Steve Fisher, Keith Petrack, Jeff Enck.

OPPOSITE PAGE 2) at Night of Dance, SUNFESTIVAL

2024: Brett Wolfgang, Mike Gutierrez, Dale Campbell, Mark Switya, Kevin Fletcher, Scott Silber, Albert Drulis, Jeff Brydzinski, Tyler Prete, Dave Sacco, Catherine DeVioda, Cathy Picard, Holly Lane, Ruth Kloetzli, Mark Eubanks, Doug Sellers, Dave Walker, Jim Mease, Phil Vehslage, Annette Stellhorn, Rick Stellhorn, D’Shawn Prude, Jacob Strausser, Jordan Crump, Michael Peagler, Tom Roe, Dale Wyatt, JR Moritelli, Tony Zacchei, Randy Gue, Garrett Hoover, Bryce Geegey, Andrew Gebhart.

More CAMPshots page 62

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

(Continued from page 61)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Comedy/Auction Night of SUNFESTIVAL

2024: Corey Andrew, Chi Wu, Rina Pellegrini, Linda Kemp, Kim Richards, Steve Hayes, Murray Archibald, Ward Ellinger, John Hackett, Tom Newton, Angelo Ciro, Lon Miller, Gary Seiden, Jeff Audritsh, Marvin Miller, Scott Tazbin, Tony Burns, Michael Beigay, Jennifer Rubenstein, Debbie Woods, Diane Scobey, Leslie Sinclair.

OPPOSITE PAGE: 2) at Comedy/Auction Night of SUNFESTIVAL

2024: Sam Steward, Danny Sebright, Jeffrey Gabel, Scott Schramm, Jason Abela, Carol Bresler, Carolyn Billinghurst, Sondra Arkin, AJ Eckman, Laurie Thompson, Joe Vescio, Derek Chavis, Will Perrotta, Patrick Seidl, Linda Bova, Patrick Saparito, Andy Staton, Dawn Krusemark, Nahid Mazarei, Andrea Sharrin, Glen Abrams, Jerry Hofer, Paul Nye, Greg Albright, Wes Combs, Fay Jacobs, Joe Dombrowski.

(More CAMPshots page 100)

Celebrity Interview

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI

Colton Underwood Embraces Daddyhood

The former Bachelor star on showing conservatives that he deserves to have a family too, why he’s always wanted children and reassessing his privacy.

You knew him first as the first gay Bachelor. Many years later, in 2021, you got to know him much better when Coming Out Colton aired on Netflix. And while you don’t know Colton Underwood as a daddy yet, you will come October.

By mid-October, Underwood and his husband, Jordan C. Brown, who he married in May 2023, will welcome a newborn baby boy. To prepare for parenthood, Underwood has already done his homework by producing 28 episodes of his podcast, Daddyhood. On the podcast, the 32-year-old former football player, who followed in his own father’s footsteps by playing college football at Illinois State University, opens up about the couple’s fertility journey and talks to guests ranging from surrogates to egg donors and other expecting parents.

On a recent Zoom call, Underwood sported a tan and blonder hair—a combination of highlights and natural lightening thanks to a recent trip to Costa Rica. He spoke about helping to inform his conservative followers about same-sex parenting, navigating his family’s privacy as a public figure, and one of the biggest misconceptions about being a gay dad.

CHRIS AZZOPARDI: Your whole trajectory is fascinating. I’m not sure even you expected at this point in your life that you’d be welcoming a child in October and hosting a podcast called Daddyhood. COLTON UNDERWOOD: Yeah, I know. That’s the best, though. Life throws you curveballs, and I’m so proud of Jordan and I just staying true to who we are and what we want out of a relationship. And also, it’s been a long journey for us, two years in the making. And I know for a lot of people sometimes it takes much longer too. But I’m so blessed and so looking

forward to bringing the baby boy home.

CA: What stage are you in right now emotionally? And also, what preparation stage are you in knowing you’re just a couple of weeks away from having a child?

CU: I mean, we’re both just so excited and feeling really grateful. As far as preparation goes, we have the luxury of not physically having to carry the baby, so we’re a little ahead of the game. Our nursery is already done. We have most of the essentials already chosen and picked out, so we’re feeling really good, feeling really prepared, and just ready to give this baby so much love.

CA: Have you decided on a name for the baby?

CU: It hasn’t officially been locked in. We have a few that we’re headed to the hospital with just to see what he looks like the most.

CA: Some parents are so definitively set on the name of the baby before the child is born. What made you go this route?

…my goal…is to show that not just the traditional type of relationships and people are allowed to have families.

CU: Well, look, we’ve heard it all at this point. Whether people intend to or not, a lot of people are pretty pushy with, “We did this, and it worked great. You should do this.” But Jordan and I have always done a good job of taking a step back and following our path and making decisions that we feel are going to be best for our family. Who knows if we might land on a name in the next week or two or tomorrow even, but right now we have a handful of names that we’re going to be walking into the hospital with.

CA: Are some of the people who have been influential in this journey for you on your podcast?

I have always wanted a family, and I’ve always wanted to raise kids.

CU: Yeah. Season One was all about fertility, and I have my fertility doctors and fertility lawyers on there. We have surrogates and egg donors on the podcast, not mine, by any means. But just really trying to paint the picture of the overall process and how much goes into it.

I think just my goal for Daddyhood is to humanize this experience of bringing life into this world and to show that not just the traditional type of relationships and people are allowed to have families. Everybody can, whether you’re a single dad, a single mom, two moms, two dads, whatever your family dynamic looks like, as long as that baby and the kid is loved. That’s my goal here.

CA: In addition to celebratory comments on your socials, there’s also a fair share of negative comments relating to you raising a child in a same-sex relationship. Considering you do have a more conservative fan base than the majority of LGBTQ+ public figures in the world, just based purely on your football history, how do you think you are a bridge between those followers and who you are and what you stand for?

CU: I take a lot of pride in it. I mean, I realized that they still follow me and they’re listening to me. And that’s more than a lot of other queer people can say because things tend to get heated pretty quickly, especially when it comes to people

projecting their opinions and thoughts on your rights as a human being. I feel like I hold a responsibility not only for myself, but for our community, to be patient with them and to listen to them, but also to educate them.

I definitely want to be a voice that is standing my ground and saying like, “Hey, this is who I am. This is what my experience has been like, and here’s what other people’s experiences have been like as well.” And just somewhat trying to take the high road, but also just using this as an opportunity to bridge people who might not have listened to one another in the past.

I want to show them who I am and why I’m deserving and why I’ve always wanted to be a dad, and what also kept me in the closet for as long as it did. Not that I need to prove this to people, but I also just feel like it is my responsibility to continue to right the wrongs of these people and their opinions and prove them wrong.

CA: Why did you always want to be a dad?

CU: I have always wanted a family, and I’ve always wanted to raise kids. I just feel like it’s the ultimate bond that I can share now with my husband Jordan, and also just a lifelong goal of mine. I know people have financial goals and career goals. I’ve always, from my young days, wanted to be a stay-at-home dad, and I wanted to

bond with my kid and I wanted to teach him or her how to play softball or baseball or soccer or football and be a coach and a mentor. I just feel like I have so much to give to my family and to have that happen this year is incredibly exciting.

CA: What inspired Daddyhood?

CU: I think the inspiration for Daddyhood was brought just from the limited information that’s out there for same-sex couples trying to have families. I mean, it’s expensive. It’s long, it’s confusing. There’s a lot of paperwork that goes into it. I figured I have this opportunity to bring people along, and that’s sort of what I’ve done my entire career and my entire life is bring people along this journey with me. And Daddyhood is no different. They’re there for me from the moment I tested my sperm to see how many I had, to doing the mock cycles and the egg transfers and the news that we’re pregnant, and then bringing this baby boy into the world.

CA: Which guests left a major impression on you?

CU: There’s so many. What I love doing is elevating the voices of people and companies that are innovating the space and investing not only their time and resources and money into it, but really just dedicating themselves to making it easier for the queer community. One that I could single out quickly would

Continued on page 66

Interview Continued from page 65

be Legacy Sperm. They’re an at-home sperm testing kit, which I think is huge not only for same-sex couples that are living in maybe more conservative states, but also our trans community. They have a lot of trans customers just because of what I pointed out. Those people might not feel comfortable going into a doctor’s office or a traditional lab to get their work done out of fear of many different things. CA: In one episode, you discuss how surprising it may be to people who watched you on The Bachelor that you may decide to keep your family life more private. Why does that approach seem best for your family?

CU: I think it’s my partner. I mean, Jordan is an incredible balance for me. He’s not a very public person and likes to be private. But he also understands and supports me in my career and what I’m doing. He also feels the responsibility of us continuing just to be somewhat public-facing as two married men. And I think that went into our decision to continue to be out and open and not hide anything. But also there’s criticism always that comes along with that. I’ve done it all: I’ve let people’s comments go, I’ve addressed them, I’ve taken the “kill them with kindness” approach. I’ve tried it all, right? And it adds up.

To bring a baby into this world and then subject them to any type of opinions or hurt is something I want to avoid. So that’s our golden rule right now: just to protect our family.

CA: And yet you are in this distinct position, like we discussed, of how your public life can help change and shape the discourse around LGBTQ+ families. That’s trickier to do if you’re private about it. So how do you reconcile the two?

CU: I mean, I’m going to just continue to do the work that I’m doing right now. I definitely think that I’m very much of the mindset of “people can be multiple things.” And also people can change and people can grow. I’m certainly not the same person I was when I was 25, first entering the real world. And I’m allowed to redraw my boundaries. I think I never really fully understood that, where I was like, “Oh, I came in through reality TV. I owe this to people.” And it’s like I can

reevaluate and make decisions that are healthy and best for me as I continue to navigate my life. I think the same thing can be said about my relationship and my family and continuing to honor and respect the work that I want to do, but

As far as preparation goes, we have the luxury of not physically having to carry the baby, so we’re a little ahead of the game.

also do it in a way that feels good to me.

CA: What are some of the common challenges that specifically gay fathers face?

CU: For gay fathers, specifically, the thing that I hear is, “How dare you take this baby from a mother? The child needs a mother.” Of course, biologically, I don’t have the body parts of a woman, but I am going to hopefully have that emotional capability to connect with my son. [I want to] continue to break down the barriers and stereotypes that family is a man and a woman, and that’s what the unit looks like. It can look like so many different things.

CA: Any famous gay dads who have

been mentors to you during this?

CU: Obviously, you look at the examples of Andy Cohen, Anderson Cooper, Neil Patrick Harris. Those are men who put a lot of work in and didn’t always have to be as public as they were, but they were because they knew that there was work to be done.

CA: Are there any current parenting trends or practices you’re following that you find interesting?

CU: I’ve read articles and books and all of that, but I feel like it all goes out the window. As soon as you bring that baby home, you really have to bond and figure out what they want. Jordan is definitely more of the products person—products, ingredients—and he’s very picky on organic everything, and I love that. He and I are very yin and yang with what we bring to the table as parents.

CA: What are your future plans for Daddyhood?

CU: Season Two is going to be a lot more of just me continuing to talk about my experiences, but also bringing on other dads and incredible brands that are innovating and continuing to push for equality in many different ways. That’s the big thing: continuing to serve as a bridge to many different communities and do my part.

CA: When can listeners expect to tune into those upcoming episodes?

CU: I will say after I get my head above water after bringing my baby boy into this world, that’s when it will go back into production. I want to continue to get that experience so then I can share authentic stories and really open up and be vulnerable about how it’s been impacting me. So I would definitely say later this year or early next year. ▼

Chris Azzopardi is the Editorial Director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate, the national LGBTQ+ wire service. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars and his work has appeared in the New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ, and Billboard. Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi.

Photos page 64-65 courtesy of Colton Underwood. Photo at left by Amber McKee.

By LESLIE SINCLAIR

SPOTLIGHT ON THE arts

CAMP Rehoboth Puts Art at the Heart of Our Community

Current and Upcoming Art Exhibitions at CAMP Rehoboth

Grin and Bear It, CAMP Rehoboth Gallery | Body Works, A Solo Exhibition by Keith David Trievel in the Elkins-Archibald Atrium | Sept. 14-Oct. 7

Currently on display in the CAMP Rehoboth Gallery is Grin and Bear It, a vibrant showcase celebrating the Bear community within LGBTQ+ culture. The exhibition, which opened during the Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend, drew art enthusiasts, LGBTQ+ supporters, and the curious alike, all coming together to celebrate art, community, and inclusivity. This dynamic exhibit highlights the diversity and creativity of an often-underrepresented segment of the LGBTQ+ world. Grin and Bear It features a wide array of artistic expressions across various mediums, including collage, photography, acrylic and oil paintings, digital graphics, mixed media, textiles, ceramics, graphite, and video. The exhibition was juried by a team of community members who selected works from a diverse group of local and regional artists, showcasing the richness of Bear culture.

Featured artists include JS Adams, Scott G. Brooks, David Camorali, Damien Cheeks, Brad Cox, Rick Dove, George Farrah, Max Fleishman, Robert Fleming, Ernest Hollowak, Jeffrey Kibler, Jon McDonough, Michael Migliori, Rich Morel, Barry Moshinski, Guillermo Silveira, Sabina Troncone, Don Twine, and Joe Vescio. Concurrent with Grin and Bear It, CAMP Rehoboth proudly presents Body Works, a solo exhibition by Keith David Trievel, in the Elkins-Archibald Atrium.

Trievel’s mixed media works combine acrylic paint on recycled canvas, bonded tissue paper, and ink drawing, resulting in a fresco-like or Venetian plaster effect. “Life is a journey from darkness into light,” Trievel reflects. “With each lesson learned and each connection formed, a little more light is shed—revealing more of our true self.” His art captures this journey of personal growth and transformation in a powerful and visually striking way.

Trievel’s work has been featured in numerous exhibitions across the country and is part of both private and corporate collections. His recent appearance in Juturna Male Art Magazine (Issue 21) in Berlin, Germany, highlights his growing international recognition. ▼

Exhibitions will be on view at the CAMP Rehoboth Gallery, Monday through Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on DelawareScene.com.

Images: (top to bottom) Tattoo Bear by Scott G. Brooks; Suspenders Bear by Don Twine; (right) Suns Up, Buns Up by Keith David Trievel.

BY JOE GFALLER

COMING SOON

Diamond in the Rough, A Solo Show by Theresa Angela Taylor | Oct. 12-Nov. 7

Reception: Oct. 17, 5-7 p.m.

CAMP

Rehoboth is thrilled to present Diamond in the Rough, a solo show by Theresa Angela Taylor, that offers viewers a chance to experience art that is as thought-provoking as it is visually dynamic.

Taylor’s work reflects her social, political, and cultural perspectives, infused with Afrocentric vibrancy that bursts with color, rhythm, and movement. Raised in Harlem and educated at The Art Institute in Arlington, Virginia, Taylor has been an art educator for over a decade, including work with the City Art Mural program for children in New York City. She is a proud member of both the Mispillion Art League and the Harlem Arts Alliance.

Plan to attend the October 17 reception when attendees will enjoy Taylor’s art and—as a special added treat—a set by the award-winning jazz performer Maya Belardo, who has sold out her performances at major venues like The Queen.

Art and Jazz run in Taylor’s family, deeply rooted in the creative legacy of Harlem and the fabled Harlem Renaissance. Her grandfather was a jazz singer with Cab Calloway, and her father was a painter—an artistic lineage that Taylor continues with her vibrant, jazz-infused art. ▼

PERFORMING ARTS

arts+entertainment

Fall has arrived at the beach, and with it, there is a whole new wave of theater performances to get excited about, across all the great venues in our region. And as the weather changes to bring a chill in the air, one thing that many of our region’s fall shows have in common is some great chills of their own. Here are a few highlights:

DICKENS PARLOUR THEATRE

Just past Bethany Beach in Ocean View, Dickens Parlour Theatre offers comedy, music, and magic, plus monthly interactive dinner theater performances that include a three-course meal. This fall, two murder mysteries take the stage to whet your appetite and your curiosity: Murder on the Menu (September 20) and Monster Mash Murders (October 25). Visit dickensparlourtheatre.com for more information.

SECOND STREET PLAYERS

In Milford, Second Street Players’ children’s theater program brings 23 young people to the stage for one weekend only (October 4-6) for an original spooky play by Pat Cook called Boo! Thirteen Scenes for Halloween. Second Street promises a few scary chuckles and sinister twists, but don’t worry, everything will be youth-friendly—so consider it a great opportunity to introduce the young people in your life to entertaining live theater! More info at secondstreetplayers.com.

POSSUM POINT PLAYERS

Possum Point’s fall production this year is a little less chilling than the rest of this fall’s offerings, but will no question be equally as fun, as they bring Something Rotten! to the stage, in a production that will be a first for our region. A goofy and joyful musical, Something Rotten! asks just what might have happened if two Elizabethan thespians got word from a soothsayer that the next big innovation for the stage

would be…THE MUSICAL. They’ll go head-to-head with the Bard himself in London in the 1590s—and quite possibly change everything you think about musical theater! It’s playing September 27-October 6, and you can find more information at possumpointplayers.org.

MILTON THEATRE

In Milton, high school is about to get deliciously deadly this fall as they bring the stage musical version of the cult movie classic Heathers to the stage. They are calling it “hilarious, heartfelt, and homicidal” for good reason. Just how many of these original mean girls will survive to the end of the show? There’s only one way to find out—visit Milton Theatre October 3-13 for the production. More info at miltontheatre.com.

CLEAR SPACE THEATRE COMPANY

And right in downtown Rehoboth Beach, there are two fall shows to pick from— each with its own fun edge. Venus in Fur, playing September 19-29, is a sexy, funny, and erotic cat-and-mouse game between a director and an actress over the course of an audition that escalates to turn “the casting couch” upside down. Then October 11-27, Clear Space brings Stephen Sondheim’s most popular musical, Sweeney Todd, to the stage for an evening of delicious fun and deadly vengeance. Information on both can be found at clearspacetheatre.org. ▼

Leslie Sinclair is a member of the Delaware State Arts Council and a passionate leader of CAMP Rehoboth’s visual arts program.

Joe Gfaller is Managing Director of Clear Space Theatre Company.

Image: The Red Apple by Theresa Angela Taylor.

arts+entertainment

BOOKED SOLID

The Rainbow Age of Television: An Opinionated History of Queer TV by Shayna Maci Warner © 2024, Abrams Press, $28.00, 304 pages

Wanna hand over the clicker?

You don’t want to miss the season premiere of that show you binge-watched over the summer. You’re invested, a fan who can’t wait to see what happens next. You heard that this may be the last season and you’ll be sad, if that’s so. Is it time to start looking for another, newer obsession or will you want to read The Rainbow Age of Television by Shayna Maci Warner, and find something old?

Like most kids of the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s, Shayna Maci Warner spent lots of time glued to a television screen, devouring programming before school, after school, and all summer long. For Warner, that programming eventually led to a revelation. They saw people that looked like them, for which they formed “a personal attachment.”

It was “life-changing....”

It didn’t happen all at once, and some of TV’s “milestones” are forever lost, since broadcasts were live until the 1950s. Shortly after shows were taped and preserved, homosexuality became a “source of worry and blunt fascination,” but certain performers carefully presented gently risqué characters and dialog that nudged and winked at viewers.

Some queer representation appeared in the 1960s, but it

wasn’t until the 1970s when dramas began to feature more gay and lesbian characters, however subtly. It took a while for “the ‘rest’ of the alphabet” to be represented in a meaningful way and—despite that Star Trek and its many versions included gender-diverse characters—it wasn’t until 1996 that an intersex infant was featured on a regular television drama.

Since Ellen DeGeneres came out practically on her namesake TV show and Will & Grace became a wild hit, queer representation on TV has ceased to be an unusual thing. And yet, programmers and writers know that caution is still warranted: sometimes, “there can still be hesitation around pushing the envelope and fear that a queer character who burns too brightly just won’t last.”

Quick: name three after-school TV shows that aired when you were in fourth grade. If you can’t do it, one thing’s for certain: you need The Rainbow Age of Television

But get ready for some argument. Author Shayna Maci Warner offers a rabid fan’s look at the best and the worst queer representation had to offer, and you may beg to differ with what they say about various programs. That makes this book a critique, of sorts, but Warner offers plenty of wiggle-room for argument.

Tussling over the finer points of queer programming, though, is only half the fun of reading this book. Microwave a box of pizza snacks or mac-and-cheese, demand “your” sofa seat, and dive into the nostalgia of old TV shows, most of them from the later years of the last century. Yep, your faves are here. It’s like having an oldies channel on paper, and in your hand.

This is a must-have for former kids and current TV addicts who are happy to see themselves represented on TV. If that’s you, who brought the chips? The Rainbow Age of Television will just click. ▼

Check-In: 8:30AM Kick-O : 10:00AM

Visiting View

BY ROBERT D e DOMINIC

The Queer Community Takes Care of Its Own

In 1986, Gaga Stone and Jane Best co-founded the iconic God’s Love We Deliver organization in New York City (NYC) as an urgent response to the AIDS epidemic. Its purpose was to provide free, nutritious meals to its clients. The organization’s mission has since grown to include anyone too ill to shop or cook for themselves. In Cleveland, Studio West 117, like Callen-Lorde in NYC, is reimagining ways to support individuals. They aim to invest in the community through health and wellness, housing, sports and activities, youth programs, the arts, and more. And on Survivor 44, Yam Yam teaching Carson to make fire—even though they could both be fighting for the million dollars—exemplified the queer community taking care of its own. Add the Poverello Eat Well Center in Wilton Manors, Florida.

According to Move for Hunger (moveforhunger.org), approximately 13.1 million children in the United States are food insecure. In Delaware, 12.6 percent of the state’s population—125,370 people—were food insecure in 2022 (Food Bank of Delaware, fdb.org). Feeding America (feedingamerica. org) reports that in Florida, where I live, 2,935,330 people are facing hunger, including 819,940 children. In a country with 756 billionaires, these numbers are disgusting.

How we as a nation treat the poor, the homeless, the hungry, and the poverty-stricken is despicable. Fortunately, countless organizations and people are stepping up and trying to make the world a better place. In NYC, I volunteered at the iconic God’s Love We Deliver. And here in Fort Lauderdale, I am honored to volunteer at Poverello’s.

Founded in 1987 by Father Bill Collins (1931-2017) and his dedicated group of volunteers, Poverello’s original goal was to operate a nonprofit clinic, feed, and sometimes house the large number of people who were dying alone and rejected by society due to complications from AIDS. The crisis was so devastating, and Father Bill performed so many

last rites, that he began to keep a “book of names” so that the community would not forget how many died and who they were.

Today, Poverello continues by helping the poor and sick to eat well. Each year, nearly 5,000 South Floridians needing support come to the Poverello Center to select medically-appropriate grocery items from its specialized menus and receive key nutritional information from a nutritionist.

Fortunately, countless organizations and people are stepping up and trying to make the world a better place.

Since its inception, Poverello’s has been “broadening our health assistance to include transportation, housing, and insurance services,” says Thomas Pietrogallo, CEO of Poverello’s. An updated mission statement (April 2024) speaks to this expansion: “The Poverello Center, Inc., serves individuals in need with a focus on those living with HIV or other chronic illnesses in South Florida, through a holistic and compassionate approach that includes prevention, nutritious food, essential health services, and basic living necessities.” The Center seeks to address the complex interplay between individual health behaviors, focusing on preventing chronic diseases in the community.

The Poverello Center is much more than a food pantry. There is a thrift store in front of the building, with proceeds from the store funding the pantry. There is a gym for clients to use. Clients can also get a haircut or get a massage. A nutritionist, nurse practitioner, and chiropractor are all available on certain days. Weekly cooking classes foster a

sense of community for those seeking connections. Pietrogallo explains, “we are covering the necessities to let someone achieve their health.”

Locally, Poverello’s is the only AIDS service organization that is still independently governed. The organization survives in part through a variety of grants and donations, which account for a third of their budget; the remaining two-thirds comes from the thrift store.

Clients can access the food pantry through programs including the Ryan White Program. There are three different tiers to that with some clients able to visit the pantry weekly or monthly depending on income and need. As of March 2023, Poverello’s Eat Well Center served 1,900 clients with HIV in Broward County and 1,388 clients with diabetes.

Roger, 59, Wilton Manors, a longtime volunteer commented, “as cheesy and as corny as it sounds, I get more out of volunteering here than I give.”

Contrary to what some people think, being poor isn’t a crime, being homeless isn’t a crime, and living in poverty isn’t a crime. People need help every once in a while.

I am proud to be a small part of an organization that provides help. I know that I have needed help at times in my life and I know how lucky I am to be part of a community like the queer community that takes care of its own. It’s what being a human being is all about.

For more information on Poverello’s or to make a donation visit poverello.org. ▼

Robert DeDominic is a freelance writer/ blogger who lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is proud to be one small blue dot in a very red state.

THE QUEERNESS OF BOOK BANNING BY

NANCY SAKADUSKI

All the News that’s Fit to Print “S

ome families have two moms or two dads.” That sentence was all it took to get Todd Parr’s charming The Family Book on the banned books list. Todd is the author of such edgy titles as the I Love You Book, The Earth Book, and The Thankful Book. The delightful little board book is meant to reassure children who are in the 82 percent of families that are not a traditional nuclear structure a la Leave it to Beaver. Instead, it’s been made out to be a controversial book, although no one seems alarmed by “Some families have one parent instead of two,” or “Some families adopt children,” the pages on either side of the offending one.

The American Library Association (ALA) documented 4,240 unique book titles targeted for banning in 2023—a 65 percent increase over 2022. Titles representing the voices and experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals made up 47 percent of those challenged. (According to the ALA, a challenge is an attempt to remove or restrict materials, based upon the objections of a person or group. A banning is the removal of those materials.)

At the top of ALA’s Most Challenged Books of 2023 is Gender Queer, a memoir by Maia Kobabe. The intensely personal odyssey of self-discovery is presented in a graphic novel format. Intended for young adults, the book details the author’s coming out as nonbinary.

Before the book was published, Kobabe was an illustrator drawing blackand-white comics about characters wrestling with gender identity. “People started responding with things like, ‘I had no idea anyone else felt this way, I didn’t even know that there were words for this’,” Kobabe said in a New York Times interview. Which gets to the heart of why books like Gender Queer can be so affirming and reassuring to some young readers and therefore should be available in libraries.

Book challenges are generally not one person complaining about a single book. They are more often an organized

Titles representing the voices and experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals made up 47 percent of those [books] challenged.

effort—groups and individuals demanding the removal of multiple titles, often dozens or hundreds at a time. Do-it-yourself book-banning lists are available to save time and effort (as well as thought). As just one example, Utah Parents United (utahparentsunited.org) maintains a comprehensive list of books they deem needing removal (with the juicy bits quoted, so you don’t have to actually read the book or understand the context), along with stepby-step instructions, and even a video tutorial on how to find the books in your school’s library.

Pressure groups are increasingly focusing on public libraries in addition to school libraries. The number of titles targeted at public libraries rose 92 percent over the previous year, accounting for about 46 percent of all book challenges in 2023.

Book challenges have gotten increasingly aggressive. A Texas law enforcement officer vigorously pursued felony charges against three librarians in the Granbury Independent School District that could have carried a penalty of two to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. In June of this year, after two years of efforts to get the librarians arrested, the officer ended his quest because the district attorney refused to prosecute, determining there was not enough evidence and was doubtful that the books met the state’s definition of “harmful material.”

As a preemptive tactic, many libraries have established policies and lobbied for legislation to protect patrons’ right to read. Passed earlier this year, HB299, the Delaware Libraries for All Act, strengthened the right to read by extending civil rights protections to public library col-

lections, services, programs, and events through the application of public accommodations laws.

Also worth noting is the Access to Library Resources and Services for Minors, an interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights (ALA’s basic policy concerning access to information), which states that, “Librarians and governing bodies should maintain that parents—and only parents— have the right and the responsibility to restrict the access of their children—and only their children—to library resources.” Censorship by librarians of constitutionally protected speech, whether for protection or for any other reason, violates the First Amendment.

“We want everyone to be able to find a book here that reflects them,” says Jennifer Noonan, MLIS, Children’s Librarian at Lewes Public Library. “And also, to be able to find a book that shows them a view into someone else’s world, one that may be completely different from their own.”

Lewes Public Library has an established collection development policy, Noonan says, “that steers us to select and purchase books based on library, educational, informational, and recreational value for all demographics. And no book can be excluded based on moral, racial, religious, or political prejudice. Not every book is for every person, and that’s okay. We just want to make sure there is something for everyone here.”

Bingo. ▼

Nancy Sakaduski is an award-winning writer and editor who owns Cat & Mouse Press in Lewes, Delaware.

Graphic courtesy of American Library Association (ala.org)

The Sea Salt Table

Korean Street Tacos

Another autumn is upon us. As much as I love this beautiful shoulder season, I get a little sad when summer ends. And a bit introspective. I think about life and its transitions. And I’m beginning to grasp why the later years are referred to as the autumn of your life.

Granted, I’m only 58. I’m still my sassy self. Vibrant and raring to go, at least in my mind. But just like summer waning into fall, changes are afoot.

The oohing and ouching as I step out of a car is new. As is hearing my mother’s voice with old-timey sayings creeping into my vernacular. Like ending a thought with “and what have you.” And when the heck did I become a person who sighs?!

Or driveling useless facts to complete strangers. Like telling the youngster making my sandwich, “Hold the peppers. Because they keep me up at night. I get horrible acid reflux. And I have to lay with my pillow just so (cut to me acting out the pillow placement).” OMG Edward James, shut up! Don’t worry, I leave an extra tip for their patience. They can buy ribbon candy.

Bedtime is changing too. As is when I rise. It’s rare to be up past 9:30. That is if I’m not already asleep on the couch. And sun’s up, Ed’s up. Early bird gets the worm and what have you.

And don’t get me started on drinking. When did I become such a lightweight? One cocktail at Aqua and I’m impressed the next morning if I can tell my right from my left by the second attempt.

Lastly, at the risk of sounding like an old get-off-my-lawn curmudgeon, life really does start to fly by. It truly is akin to a roll of toilet paper, speeding up near the end. Because I swear we just took down the harvest home decorations.

But don’t worry—I’ll rally. Pumpkins and witches will go up with all the usual gay flourishes. And it will be fabulous. Because I’m not dead yet.

This month I’m highlighting a youthful, fusion recipe: Korean Street Tacos. Our friend Sharon shared this with me and we make them often. I made small tweaks like adding the fennel and amping up the amount of meat. You’re gonna love them.

Let’s get started, shall we?

BY ED CASTELLI

STEPS

 Brown and drain 1.5 pounds of ground turkey, chicken, or beef.

 Add the following and cook over medium for 5 minutes:

• 4 pressed garlic cloves

• 4 Tbl brown sugar

• 4 Tbl low sodium soy sauce

• 2 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• ½ tsp ginger

• Pinch of red pepper

Ž Serve in flour tortillas with layers of your favorite taco ingredients like salad greens, chopped tomatoes, avocado slices, crumbed cotija cheese, pickled onions, etc.

TIPS

• Do not skip the sesame oil. It is the tasty twist to this recipe.

• I often grill these to create a crunchy exterior with a touch of smokey flavor. Oil the outside of the tortillas before filling, then lightly char in a taco grill pan.

• Pickled onions are easy to make and worth the effort. Google the technique and plan to make them the day ahead.

• Add a touch of food truck glam with a drizzle of sour cream mixed with lime juice and Thai chili sauce. ▼

Ed and his husband Jerry split their time between homes near Harrisburg Pennsylvania and Bethany Beach. Ed builds websites to pay the bills but loves to cook, garden, hike, and dote on their dog Atticus.

Did you FALL in love with the beach this summer? You don't have to LEAVE.

Early Advocate Solution on Page 108

58

AN HIV/AIDS PRIMER BY

STEPHEN RASKAUSKAS

What You Need to Know

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) remain significant global public health issues, despite tremendous advances in treatment, prevention, and education. Since October is AIDS Awareness Month in the US, let’s review a bit about HIV/ AIDS so we can do our part to end the epidemic.

HIV is believed to have evolved from a similar virus in primates, which crossed over to humans in the early 20th century. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that HIV/AIDS became recognized as a global epidemic. The first cases of what would later be identified as AIDS were reported in the United States in 1981, primarily among gay men, which led to stigmatization and misinformation. The virus quickly spread worldwide, with millions of people infected.

In 1984, scientists identified HIV as the cause of AIDS. Over the years, antiretroviral therapy (ART) has become the standard treatment for HIV. ART has transformed HIV from a fatal disease to a manageable chronic condition, allowing people with HIV to live longer and healthier lives. Despite these advances, the disease still affects millions globally.

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells (T cells), which are crucial for fighting infections. Over time, if untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells, making the body more susceptible to infections and certain cancers. When a person’s CD4 cell count drops below a critical level or when they develop certain opportunistic infections, they are diagnosed with AIDS.

HIV/AIDS is not just a medical issue; it is also a deeply social one. From the beginning of the epidemic, certain groups— particularly queer communities and men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, and sex workers—have faced discrimination and stigmatization. This stigma is rooted in misconceptions about the virus, as well as societal prejudices.

The stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS

can lead to delayed diagnosis, lack of treatment, and even social isolation for those affected. For many, the fear of being judged or ostracized can prevent them from getting tested or disclosing their status to partners or family mem-

…individuals with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to others. In other words, “undetectable = untransmittable” or U=U.

bers. Additionally, people living with HIV may face legal discrimination, including restrictions on travel, employment, and access to healthcare.

One of the most significant advances in the fight against HIV/AIDS is the understanding that individuals with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to others. In other words, “undetectable = untransmittable” or U=U.

When a person living with HIV adheres to antiretroviral therapy (ART), their viral load—the amount of HIV in their blood—can be reduced to undetectable levels. This means that the virus is still present in the body, but in such low quantities that standard tests cannot detect it. Most importantly, research has shown that people with an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to sexual partners.

Preventing the transmission of HIV is a critical component of ending the epidemic. Here are a few strategies to prevent transmission.

CONDOM USE: Consistent and correct use of condoms during sex is one of the most effective ways to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

REGULAR TESTING: Regular HIV testing allows individuals to know their status and seek treatment if necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing HIV and reducing transmission.

PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS (PREP): PrEP is a daily medication that can prevent HIV infection in people who are HIV-negative but at high risk of exposure. When taken consistently, PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV.

POST-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS (PEP): PEP involves taking antiretroviral medications within 72 hours after potential exposure to HIV. PEP is not intended for regular use but as an emergency intervention after potential high-risk exposure.

TREATMENT AS PREVENTION (TASP):

Treatment as Prevention is the idea that taking ART to reduce an individual’s viral load to undetectable levels not only improves their health but also prevents the transmission of HIV to others. TasP is a cornerstone of public health strategies aimed at ending the HIV epidemic.

SAFE NEEDLE USE: For people who inject drugs, using sterile needles and syringes and participating in needle exchange programs can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Harm reduction programs also play a key role in preventing transmission among this population.

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH: Public health education campaigns are vital in spreading awareness about how HIV is transmitted and how it can be prevented.

Have an IRA? Consider a...

Charitable Qualified

Distribution

A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows individuals who are 70 ½ years old or older to donate up to $100,000 total to one or more to their charities directly from a taxable IRA instead of taking their required minimum distributions.

For More Info:

Contact our Development Manager, Laurie Thompson, at laurie@camprehoboth.com to learn more about making a QCD. EIN # 51-0331962

Culturally sensitive outreach programs help reach vulnerable populations and reduce the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Uplifting friends, family, and colleagues living with HIV/AIDS by offering emotional support, reducing discrimination, and fostering inclusive environments is also essential in empowering individuals living with HIV/AIDS and their communities. You can also donate time or resources to community organizations that provide testing, education, or essential services for those with HIV/AIDS.

Despite progress, HIV/AIDS continues to be a major public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income populations. The global response to HIV/AIDS has improved dramatically over the past few decades. However, challenges remain, including maintaining funding, ensuring equitable access to services, and addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to the epidemic.

To truly end the HIV epidemic, we must continue to combat the stigma and discrimination that have long accompanied the disease, and ensure that all people, regardless of where they live, have access to the tools they need to protect themselves and their communities. ▼

Stephen Raskauskas is a Sussex County native who has produced content for radio, TV, digital, and print.

Donor

Requests a qualified charitable distribution from their IRA.

IRA Custodian

Sends that QCD to the charity that the donor chooses.

The donor gets a tax deduction while supporting a good cause!

Photo by Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition on Unsplash

Historical Headliners

BY ANN APTAKER

Impure Puritans: Thomas Morton and His Banned Book

The stories our elementary school teachers taught us about the New England Puritans—how strict they were in their religious practices, how rigid they were in their morals—have all—well, somewhat—gone out the window. It seems that those stuffy ol’ Puritans were human after all, with the same licentious drives humans have been experiencing since we lived in the trees. Jumping down from those trees and standing upright probably only increased those desires because now we could actually see the goods. Such visual delights probably didn’t apply to the Puritans, though, since they were generally buttoned up from neck to foot.

They certainly knew what lay beneath the buttons, however, and in most cases they did everything they could to discourage taking pleasure in the body, except for procreation. But it turns out that transgressions, especially in same sex attraction, were occasionally (very occasionally) tolerated. And if, or when, the transgressors were punished, the punishment began with a warning here, a social snub there, and only progressed to severe physical punishment if the transgressors did not cease their activity.

For example, in 1637, two men, John Allexander and Thomas Roberts, accused of “buggery,” suffered severe punishment. Allexander was beaten and sent into exile, and Roberts was also beaten and consigned to indentured servitude.

In 1649, two women, on the other hand, Mary Hammon and Sarah Norman, accused of “lewd behavior each with the other upon a bed” and “diverse lascivious speeches,” suffered no physical punishment that I could document, perhaps because they were women. Only Sarah Norman, whom the court likely considered the instigator of the “lewd behavior,” was made to suffer humiliation by making “public acknowledgement” of her activity.

The majority of the New England Puritans went along with these laws and their haphazard application. But there was a faction who listened to other ideas. Their leader and philosophical

mentor was Thomas Morton, an English lawyer and trader who settled near the Plymouth colony of Puritans in Massachusetts in 1624. He traded furs and other goods with the local Indigenous Algonquin tribes, but despite the laws of the Plymouth colony, Morton also supplied them with guns and liquor.

He also studied their daily ways and culture, and approved of what he considered their more humane approach to gender and sexuality. In time, his ideas seeped into the Plymouth colony, and a number of colonists followed him into Morton’s new colony, which he called Merrymount, located near today’s Quincy, Massachusetts.

Activities in Merrymount, especially dances around a maypole, caused great indignation among the leaders of the New England Puritans. In their zest to crush homosexual behavior—indeed, pleasurable sexual behavior of any kind—they condemned Morton and his followers, but to little avail.

We now know, through ongoing research, that the Puritans of New England felt and expressed the same sexual desires we do today. The Puritans’ need to engage in their preferred sexual pleasures in secret was not much different than our own closeted experiences and the draconian punishments imposed on us for centuries by American civil and criminal law.

Thomas Morton has the distinct honor of having written the very first book to be banned in America: the New English

Thomas Morton has the distinct honor of having written the very first book to be banned in America…

Canaan, published in 1637 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The book was a three-volume denunciation of the Puritans, their civil and religious laws, their unenforceable moral laws, their subjugation of the local Indigenous tribes, and their debasement of the land through harmful farming practices and rampant deforestation in their need for lumber to build their homes and churches.

Even the faraway British overlords of the American colonies were incensed by the book, and copies of the first edition were seized and destroyed in England. Morton himself was charged with sedition, arrested, and imprisoned in Boston for his activities at Merrymount and for his writings. While awaiting trial, he took very ill, and because of his declining health he was given clemency and released from jail. He spent the remainder of his life in Maine, where he died in 1647. He was 71 years old.

We owe Thomas Morton our gratitude not only for his environmental awareness, but also for his awareness of the human need for freedom in its most fundamental forms.

Banned Books Week begins September 22. What better way to honor Thomas Morton than by reading a banned book? ▼

Ann Aptaker is the author of short stories and the Lambda & three-time Goldie award winning Cantor Gold series. Her latest book, A Crime of Secrets, was released in July 2023.

LAWNS & GARDENS BY

JAKE SOLYST

Lawn vs. Habitat

Changing Our Perception of the ‘Messy’ Yard

Around May 2023, I saw a local television news story out of Portsmouth, Virginia, involving a homeowner along the Elizabeth River whose next-door neighbor hadn’t cut or trimmed the vegetation in his yard for more than four years. In the segment, the homeowner airs his grievances against the densely vegetated property over the fence.

This colorful local dispute gets to the heart of a perception issue that is critical to the future of the Chesapeake Bay—and other fragile habitats—and its wildlife.

On one side, you have the people whose ideal yard is bright green, low cut and tidy, with perhaps some shrubs or a row of daylilies around the edges. On the other side, you have the brave few who aim to break tradition and use their yard in ways that benefit the environment.

I can’t say whether the neighbor’s overgrown property resulted from a love for nature, or simply neglect, but there’s a lot of benefit to it. The reason the neighbor can let his yard grow so lavishly is because it’s in a Resource Protection Area due to its close proximity to the water. This means, under the law, he doesn’t have to cut it if he doesn’t want to.

Tall grass, shrubs, and trees do a great job of absorbing stormwater runoff, which keeps nutrient pollution, chemical contaminants, and sediment from washing into the river. Conversely, frequently mowed turf grass has shallow roots that don’t absorb much stormwater.

But the benefits go beyond cleaner water. Bugs, bees, and birds are dying off by the billions across the country because of dwindling natural habitat. The overgrown property is likely bursting with insect and pollinator life, which is food for birds.

Breaking with the tidy lawn-and-garden traditions and practices is going to require some trailblazers. If you’re thinking of being one, here are a few tips on how to maintain a more habitat-friendly yard.

• Choose plants based on the bene-

fits they provide to wildlife. For example, a shrub like winterberry produces fruit for birds late into winter, while milkweed is the host plant for larvae of the beloved monarch butterfly. Also try to pick plants that bloom at different times of the year, thus providing different wildlife with habitat and food year-round.

• Where you must mow, set the mower height to 3.5 inches or higher, which will make your lawn healthier and more drought resistant. After mowing, spread some of those clippings back onto the yard as natural fertilizer—or better still, use a mulching mower, which does much of that work for you by leaving the clippings where they lie.

• Use as little chemical fertilizer as possible, especially during rainy seasons or when you’re close to a body of water. Better yet, use only native plants, which often require no fertilizer at all.

• Consider giving your property a “mullet,” by leaving the front yard with turf grass and dedicating the backyard to native trees, shrubs, and other plants. Similarly, you could establish a “wild space” or two in the yard, where you let the vegetation grow and collect all of your fall leaves.

• Look into resources and programs near you to install rain gardens, pollinator gardens, and other conservation landscapes.

To be clear, there will be barriers to

The overgrown property is likely bursting with insect and pollinator life, which is food for birds.

rewilding your yard. Replacing turf grass with new plants can be time consuming and expensive, and there’s no guarantee wildlife will show up once you do.

And, homeowner associations often require that grass be kept under a certain length and even dictate which shrubs and trees are permitted. These rules can be at odds with environmental best practices.

At the end of the day, we need more middle ground. It’s okay to leave space in your yard for kids to run around and to play horseshoes, but it’s also okay to stand out from your neighbors and provide habitat for wildlife.

It’s my hope that in my lifetime, homeowners will be proud of their yard not because it’s close-cropped and bright green, but because it’s attracting birds and soaking up runoff. We are in a time where smart land management is very critical, and we should all be on the same page about what we want to get out of our natural spaces. ▼

Jake Solyst works for the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and is the web content manager in the Chesapeake Bay Program’s Communications Office. This article is reprinted with permission from the May 2024 issue of the Chesapeake Bay Journal.

Photo: Diane Mitchell

rehoboth museum ad 28-02_Layout 1 3/30/2018 2:11 PM Page 1

TALKING TRASH (and Recycling)

The Dirty Dozen

It’s apple season and I’m looking forward to getting a large basket of apples at the farmers market. I used to grow all kinds of fruits and vegetables in our garden, strawberries, potatoes, tomatoes, beans, herbs. And we had lots of fruit trees and brambles where we got cherries, apples, raspberries, blueberries, and figs.

Nowadays, I buy things at the grocery store or go to pick-your-own places. But the challenge with these is that I don’t know how they were grown, handled, or what was sprayed on the produce that I bring home.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) in their 2024 report found that “75% of conventional fresh produce sampled had residuals of potentially harmful pesticides. But for items on the Dirty Dozen, a whopping 95% of samples contained pesticides.”

Before researching this topic, I was especially concerned about the “Dirty Dozen,” those foods consumed that have the highest load of pesticides and chemicals.

On the other hand, I learned that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes that a large percentage of food-born illnesses are from bacteria on fresh produce. So much for me being mostly concerned with chemicals. The remedy? To wash our produce.

Wash them, but how? Are we supposed to clean every grape with a damp paper towel as Emma Pillsbury of the TV show Glee? Or a couple seconds under running water?

Clearly, eating berries directly off the bush is not as safe as I once thought. After years of washing without really knowing what I was doing, I recently set out to find the best way to wash my fruits and vegetables.

Now remember that organic produce is not supposed to use pesticides—but will still have dirt and bacteria. Thus, they should be washed as well.

The CDC, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) say running water is good. FDA recommends washing under running water (more than 10 seconds) to remove dirt and bacteria. A produce brush will help take dirt and bacteria off sturdy produce, but some less-sturdy produce fares better with just fingers. The general recommendation is to wash immediately before consumption, instead of washing and storing;

⊳ THE ⊲ DIRTY DOZEN

Starting with the most contaminated, they include:

Strawberries

Spinach

Kale, Collards, Mustard Greens

Grapes

Peaches

Pears

Nectarines

Apples

Bell and Hot Peppers

Cherries

Blueberries

Green beans

BY JEFFREY DANNIS

bacteria can grow on the produce while in storage.

The USDA recommends cutting out damaged or bruised sections of the produce.

Most parents (and the CDC/USDA) will remind you that bacteria grow on everything, so it all should be washed. But especially—wash your hands first. An oft-forgotten step.

The New York Times suggests soaking in one part white vinegar to three parts water to reduce bacteria and then rinsing with water. Foodsafety.gov suggests that the vinegar rinse doesn’t work.

A study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry looked at the best ways to remove pesticides from apples. They exposed apples to three different pesticides and they evaluated: a) rinsing under running water, b) Clorox bleach solution, and c) baking soda in water solution.

They found that soaking for 12-15 minutes in the baking soda solution and then rinsing with water was the best to remove surface pesticides. A great solution but they warned that it wasn’t perfect because the solution did not remove the pesticides that soak into the fruit’s skin.

Note that this study was only for apples and did not extend to the other produce on the list. Separately, Arm & Hammer recommends one teaspoon baking soda for every two cups of water or three to four tablespoons for a sink full. (I will keep that in mind for when I go next summer to Millville to pick blueberries.)

So, despite the variety of opinions, my investigation identified that running water, maybe water with baking soda, worked best. No dish soap, no bleach, no veggie wash. Use a vegetable brush for sturdy produce.

In general, I was washing right. Well, with lots of exceptions. I’m not supposed to be washing that whole bag of apples all at once. And I do like eating berries directly from the bramble. Correction—I love picking and immediately eating berries from the bramble. So maybe next time, a little less eating, and a little more washing. ▼

Jeffrey Dannis is a Delaware professional engineer, nutrient consultant, and certified composter. He can be reached at FitnessEngineering.net or at Jeff.Dannis.

h . c o m / d o n a t e .

T h e r e a r e a n u m b e r o f w a y s y o u c a n u s e p l a n n e d

g i v i n g t o b u i l d c h a r i t a b l e g i v i n g i n t o y o u r l i f e p l a n s ,

e v e n a f t e r d e a t h . S o m e c a n e v e n h e l p y o u l o w e r y o u r

t a x a b l e i n c o m e n o w ! C o n s i d e r p l a n n i n g a h e a d n o w a n d

e x p l o r e s o m e o f t h e s e w a y s f o r g i v i n g a f t e r l i f e :

B e q u e s t

P l a n n e d G i f t

L i f e I n s u r a n c e

Q u a l i f i e d R e t i r e m e n t P l a n

ESTATE AND LIFE ESTATE AND LIFE INCOME GIFTS INCOME GIFTS

A c h a r i t a b l e g i f t f r o m y o u r e s t a t e i s a

f a v o r e d m e t h o d o f g i v i n g t h a t e n a b l e s

y o u t o a c h i e v e y o u r f i n a n c i a l g o a l s a n d

b e n e f i t C A M P R e h o b o t h .

MATCHING GIFT MATCHING GIFT

M a t c h i n g g i f t s a r e a g r e a t w a y

t o e n h a n c e y o u r g i f t t o C A M P

R e h o b o t h . P l e a s e c h e c k w i t h

y o u r c o m p a n y ’ s h u m a n

r e s o u r c e s d e p a r t m e n t t o

d e t e r m i n e i f y o u r c o m p a n y

o f f e rs m a t c h i n g g i f t s .

I f y o u a r e 7 0 ½ y e a r s o f a g e o r

o l d e r , a t r a n s f e r f r o m a n I R A m a y

b e a b e n e f i c i a l w a y t o s u p p o r t

C A M P R e h o b o t h .

The REAL DIRT

The Stars of Autumn

Asters, often referred to as the “stars” of the autumn garden, are a delightful group of perennial flowers known for their vibrant colors and daisy-like appearance. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, which also includes sunflowers, daisies, and chrysanthemums, asters are widely admired for their ability to extend the flowering season well into the fall, when many other garden plants have already begun to fade. With a rich history, ecological importance, and a wide variety of species and cultivars, asters are a beloved choice for gardeners seeking to add color and life to their landscapes as the seasons change.

The genus Aster is diverse, comprising over 600 species, although many have been reclassified into other genera. However, the term “aster” is still commonly used to describe a wide range of species within this group. Native to North America, Europe, and Asia, asters are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of climates and soil types.

Asters typically grow to heights ranging from one to four feet, with some dwarf varieties staying under a foot tall, while others can reach up to six feet. The flowers are characterized by a central disk, often yellow or gold, surrounded by a ring of ray-like petals that come in shades of purple, blue, pink, and white. This star-like appearance is what gives asters their name, derived from the Greek word for “star.”

There are numerous species and cultivars of asters, each offering unique characteristics in terms of color, size, and bloom time. Some of the most popular species include:

• New England aster, known for its tall, robust stems and vibrant purple or pink flowers, is a favorite in American gardens. It is highly resistant to powdery mildew, a common issue with some other aster varieties.

• New York aster is slightly shorter than the New England aster but offers a wider range of colors, including blues and reds. It blooms slightly later in the

season, providing color well into late fall.

• Wood aster is a native to woodland areas; this species prefers partial shade and produces delicate white or pale lavender flowers. It is a great choice for naturalizing in shady garden areas.

Asters are a true gem in the world of gardening, offering not only beauty but also ecological benefits.

• Alpine aster is a great low-growing species that is ideal for rock gardens or as a ground cover. It produces early-blooming flowers in shades of lavender, pink, and white, making it a wonderful addition to the spring garden.

Asters are relatively easy to grow and care for, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates. Well-drained soil is essential for asters, as they do not thrive in waterlogged conditions. A soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.0) is ideal.

Planting asters in the spring allows them to establish themselves before the

BY ERIC W. WAHL

onset of the hot summer months. Space the plants according to their mature size, typically one to three feet apart, to ensure good air circulation and reduce the risk of powdery mildew. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Water asters regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage further flowering and keep the plants looking tidy. In late fall or early spring, asters should be cut back to about two to three inches above the ground to promote healthy new growth.

Asters are not only beautiful but also ecologically significant. They are a crucial late-season nectar source for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Monarch butterflies rely on asters during their fall migration.

In terms of companion planting, asters pair well with other fall-blooming perennials such as goldenrod, sedum, and ornamental grasses (native, of course). Their bright colors contrast beautifully with the warm hues of autumn foliage, creating a stunning visual display.

Asters are a true gem in the world of gardening, offering not only beauty but also ecological benefits. Their versatility, ease of care, and ability to thrive in various environments make them an excellent addition to any garden. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, asters continue to shine, bringing joy and color to the garden when many other plants have gone dormant. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just beginning, consider adding asters to your garden and enjoy the late-season splendor they bring.

Be safe, and let’s garden together! ▼

Eric W. Wahl is Landscape Architect at Pennoni Associates, and President of the Delaware Native Plant Society.

Photo: Danielle Claude Belanger on Unsplash.com

BOOKS FOR THE SEASON

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI AND SARAH BRICKER HUNT

Come Out & Read (Before They’re Banned)

Just in time for Banned Books Week (and National Coming Out Day), here’s a curated list of enlightening reads for readers of all ages that covers the vibrant spectrum of LGBTQ+ experiences. From stirring memoirs to groundbreaking fiction, these books celebrate diversity, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward equity.

There are titles suitable for adults, children, and teens, ensuring that everyone can find a voice that resonates with them. Whether you’re seeking poignant narratives, empowering anthologies, or insightful non-fiction, these compelling voices are sure to inspire, educate, and entertain.

MORE THAN JUST A PRETTY BOOK

Photography—A Queer History

Edited by Flora Dunster and Theo Gordon

The role of photography in understanding queerness from various historical vantage points is vividly detailed by co-authors Flora Dunster and Theo Gordon

in a volume rife with striking images and evocative details on who was behind the lens. Photos dating as far back as 1891, when feminist photographer Alice Austen shot The Darned Club—two pairs of women are seen embracing, including Austen, on her lawn overlooking the New York Bay Narrows—is among this collection of less-popularized depictions of queer life. Through time, we see the role of fantasy in lesbian history via The Knight’s Move, shot in 1990 by Tessa Boffin, and how a self-portrait by Collier Schor, captured just a few years ago in 2021, illustrates trans sensibility. With the work of 84 artists, Dunster and Gordon help us understand how the history of

our documented lives through photography has advanced fights against LGBTQ+ discrimination while awakening our collective sense of self.

A Great Gay Book: Stories of Growth, Belonging & Other Queer Possibilities

Edited by Ryan Fitzgibbon

Before A Great Gay Book, there was Hello Mr., a zine published by writer and editor Ryan Fitzgibbon for five years between 2013 and 2018 that you could just as easily find at your indie bookshop as the ones inside the mall. Fitzgibbon, a Grand Valley State University grad, was the founder of the magazine, which now serves as a time capsule of queer written and visual works created by some of the most accomplished queer voices of the last decade, including poet Ocean Vuong, journalist Matthew Rodriguez, and New York Times critic-at-large Wesley Morris. A stunning decorative addition to any coffee table but foremost a must-read collection of writing and art, A Great Gay Book pulls together past work alongside new contributions that altogether accomplish exactly what Fitzgibbon, as he writes in the Hello Again prologue, set out to do: to encourage reflection “as a mirror to conceive new possibilities.”

Gentle

Chaos: Poems, Tales, and Magic

Tyler Gaca

Tyler Gaca, aka Ghosthoney on TikTok, was a pandemic-era quarantine comfort to many, known for a range of vlogstyle videos, from comedic sketches to late-night musings. Now closing in on three million TikTok followers, Gaca is the published author of Gentle Chaos, which is on this list even though it came out in 2023 because it just may always be relevant given the state of the not-so-gentle chaos of the world. “I am

still standing off stage in my own living room and gathering myself before I make a little joke, this time for the audience that lives inside my phone,” he writes in the book. Now, however, Gaca has an audience that loves a page flip and not just a finger tap, as his book adapts his TikTok stories into printed personal photographs and the written word, with vulnerable essays and poetry about growing up queer in Oklahoma.

REAL LIFE

Joan Baez: When You See My Mother, Ask Her to Dance

Joan Baez

A companion book to Joan Baez’s life-affirming documentary I Am a Noise, a moving must-see that goes to the personal and professional depths of the pioneering folk singer and social activist’s rich life, When You See My Mother, Ask Her to Dance presents an equally heartfelt experience through her never-before-published writing. In this collection of unguarded letters and poetry, Baez, who has dated both men and women, writes intimately about her romantic relationships and childhood memories. Much of her writing here was drafted between 1991 and 1997, after Baez was diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder, and some are credited to her “inner authors.”

Countless Sleepless Nights: A Collection of Coming-Out Stories & Experiences

Edited by Carina Magger

Few things can remind you that you are, indeed, not alone on your self-discovery journey more than just knowing people around the world also feel the fear, pain, and joy of taking the steps to be your authentic self. Editor Carina Magger interviewed 85 people from 16 countries over the course of eight months in 2022.

That was until high school, when they gave up being one of the guys and harnessed their feminine power.

The result is a collection of stories with a diaristic sensibility, like “Not Part of God’s Plan,” about a gay Mormon’s experience in helping to change hearts and minds, even his own Republican father’s, and, via the UK, “Mum, I’m in Love,” about a lesbian woman’s parents proudly celebrating her newfound romance.

Cactus Country: A Boyhood Memoir Zoë Bossiere

“This will resonate with anyone who’s longed for escape— from a hometown or their own body—but lacked an exit plan,” wrote Publisher’s Weekly about Brevity magazine editor Zoë Bossiere’s reflections on growing up feeling like a boy in the Sonoran Desert. The boys and working-class men in Bossiere’s orbit when they were an adolescent gave them a startling example of what seemed to define manhood— sexism, racism, substance abuse, and violence—and, like so many of us trying to fit in at that age, they mirrored their dress and mannerisms. That was until high school, when they gave up being one of the guys and harnessed their feminine power.

THE MORE YOU KNOW

Gay Science: The Totally Scientific Examination of LGBTQ+ Culture, Myths, and Stereotypes

Rob Anderson

You won’t be squirming in your seat waiting for class to be dismissed as you read comedian and TikTok influencer Rob Anderson’s amusingly satirical guide to understanding gayness through something only anti-vaxxers might argue with: science. Though Anderson is upfront about how this book really is not completely rooted in actual scientific-based facts, if you’re queer, you’ll identify with this body of cheekily presented knowl-

edge, divided into three branches and 29 fields of Gay Science (it is capped in the book, because “science”). I really did laugh at Anderson’s anecdote on why queers can hit snooze on their alarm all they want and still arrive at work at a reasonable time—because we can speed “past slow straight people” to “defy the laws of physics.” To make this present as a real textbook you might bring to Gay Science class, there’s even a gay glossary and some very iconic stock photography.

Hollywood Pride: A Celebration of LGBTQ+ Representation and Perseverance in Film

Alonso Duralde

One word in pop culture that you’ll keep hearing until we get exactly what we deserve—representation. There’s more of it, and there’s not enough of it, and now thanks to film critic Alonso Duralde, we have a comprehensive history book that charts, when it comes to seeing ourselves represented on screen, where we started and where we’ve yet to go. Through an exploration of LGBTQ+ themes and characters dating back to 1894 with Dickson Experimental Sound Film, Duralde charts progress through eras like “Silent Comics in Drag,“ from the early 19th century, all the way through to our modern-era “Icons,” like director Todd Haynes, trans directors Lana and Lilly Wachowski, and a major 20th-century turning point in queer film: Brokeback Mountain

Pride Power: The Young Person’s Guide to LGBTQ+

Harriet Dyer

This adorable little guide to everything LGBTQ+ for ages 11 and up presents an accessible, easy-to-follow look that can help anyone understand their sexual orientation and identity. In addition to breaking down the meaning

of the gay ABCs and how to better understand your gender, the book gives a brief look at significant historical markers in our fight for equality, and includes recommendations on films, TV, and video games that celebrate LGBTQ+ visibility and representation. With allies in mind, Pride Power also offers a full chapter on tips for young LGBTQ+ people interested in getting involved in queer activism and how our allies can help to create a more inclusive world.

FICTION

The Safekeep Yael van der Wouden

Yael van der Wouden’s debut novel has received rave reviews from The Guardian and the New York Times, and Kirkus Reviews called it “nearly perfect.” Infatuation is at its mysterious core, as Isabel grows curious about her brother’s girlfriend Eva, who, while staying with Isabel, challenges her to shake up the monotony of her regimented life in the rural Dutch province of Overijssel. As the story unfolds, there’s more than meets the eye, some of which involves self-discovery and queer relationships during the 1960s, when those relationships rarely left the house.

Four Squares

Bobby Finger

With friendship at its heart, author Bobby Finger’s follow-up to The Old Place finds more tenderness within communitydriven narratives. This time, the story is about Artie Anderson over the course of 30 years, beginning in 1992 in New York City during his 30th birthday, against the backdrop of the AIDS epidemic. Three decades later, as those closest to him move across the country and after Continued on page 104

SUSSEX COUNTY'S ONLY BREAST SURGEONS

Matthew Richards, MD FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED

Karen Barbosa, DO, FACOS

Our board-certified surgeons offer advanced techniques and expertise that make Beebe the best choice for breast care in Sussex County.

Diana Dickson-Witmer, MD, FACS BOARD-CERTIFIED SURGEON

When you choose Beebe Healthcare, you are choosing more than a compassionate partner in breast cancer care. You’re choosing a team backed by Sussex County’s only board-certified surgeons specializing in breast care—including Dr. Diana Dickson-Witmer, a visionary who has pioneered the advancement of breast health and surgery in Delaware for more than 25 years, and Drs. Karen Barbosa and Matthew Richards as the county’s only fellowship-trained breast surgeons. Together, they lead the Center for Breast Health that was designed so patients could receive timely diagnosis and advanced treatment by Beebe's compassionate team of experts in a unified location.

Deep Inside Hollywood

The Freaky Friday Sequel Has a Title…

Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan dropped the exciting news at Disney’s recent D23 event. After an assembled crowd went wild with a standing ovation to celebrate their very existence, the reunited screen mom and daughter announced the title of the in-production Freaky Friday sequel: Freakier Friday Lesbian director Nisha Ganatra (Late Night, The High Note) is at the helm of the updated story which sees Tess and Anna, years later, dealing with the stresses of life. Anna has a daughter of her own now, as well as a soon-to-be stepdaughter. And, well, it would appear that they didn’t learn their lesson from the first body-switch accident, and they make that fateful wish all over again. Will other family members get switched, too? Who can say? But we can say that Mark Harmon and Chad Michael Murray are back, and the whole hotly anticipated thing (which, for the record, is officially lesbian cinema canon thanks to the Jodie-starring ’70s original) drops into movie theaters sometime in 2025. ▼

Enter the Cher and Chaz Horror Maze

Spooky season is right around the corner, and if you’re old enough to remember Cher’s ’90s goth home furnishings company Sanctuary (catalogs for sale on eBay for the curious and/or devoted) you won’t be at all surprised to learn that she’s producing a horror movie alongside her son Chaz Bono. It’s called Little Bites —it’s about a flesh-eating monster stalking a young girl and a mom who’ll sacrifice everything to keep her child safe. It’s coming to theaters this October, followed soon after by a streaming debut on the horror platform Shudder. Chaz also co-stars in the film directed by Spider One ( Allegoria) alongside Krsy Fox (Terrifier 3 ) and, most thrillingly, horror legends Barbara Crampton ( Jakob’s Wife), Heather Langenkamp (the original A Nightmare on Elm Street ) and Bonnie Aarons (The Nun). You were hoping for special candy this October and now you’ll get this full-size treat from Cher. ▼

BY ROMEO SAN VICENTE

Quinta Brunson and Stephanie Hsu Team for Par for the Course

People who pay attention to what major studios are sending into movie theaters will tell you that Universal has been bucking the trends and doing so profitably for years now. When other studios are content to recycle IP, create sequels where none were needed, and bank everything on hugely expensive event-style content (Scorsese won’t call it “cinema,” why should we?)

Universal puts more, and less expensive, original scripts into production, counting on audiences to show up for movies that aren’t the same old thing. All of that to say that the latest project on their future docket comes from Quinta Brunson, the star and creator of Abbott Elementary. Co-written by Brunson and fellow Abbott team member Justin Tan, it’s called Par for the Course, and that’s quite literally all the information we have about what it’s going to be, other than the welcome news that queer actor and Academy Award nominee Stephanie Hsu (Everything Everywhere All at Once) will co-star alongside Brunson in the comedy. When its status as “under wraps” changes, we’ll tell you more.▼

Gus Van Sant Takes on Gawker with Affleck and Damon

Remember the gossip site Gawker? Remember how Hulk Hogan sued them out of existence for leaking the sex tape where he cucked a friend with that friend’s wife and then freaky gay Trump-loving billionaire Peter Thiel funded the lawsuit because he was angry that Gawker had outed him years before that? It doesn’t matter if you don’t. Maybe you were busy with your life. Anyway, the insane true story became a book— Conspiracy: Peter Thiel, Hulk Hogan, Gawker and the Anatomy of Intrigue, by Ryan Holiday—and now Matt Damon and Ben Affleck have taken on Charles Randolph’s screenplay adaptation and are reportedly handing it to their Good Will Hunting pal Gus Van Sant. At the moment the project is called Killing Gawker and early word is Affleck wants to play Hogan. Don’t get tired rubbing your hands together, there’s still a wait ahead of you. ▼

Romeo San Vicente is more a Thirsty Thursday, really.

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

(Continued from page 63)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Battle of the Bachelors: Roxy Overbrooke, Lorne Crawford, Richard Bankowitz, Ben Horenstein, Philip Townsend, Tim Langen, Luis Gomez, Jacob Strausser, Alonza Parker, Todd Mosko, Jodi Johnson, Chase Sims, Tom Protack, Josh Walker, Michael Dick, Adam Gold, Michael MaLoon, Jimmy Mavrikes, Michael Windsor, Miss Dolly Girl, Chris Montgomery, Danny Baird Jr, Brenda Dunn, Karen Anderson, Dennis Shine, Kelly Sullivan, Katelyn Sullivan, Scott Sullivan, Deb Bievenour, Mel Damscena, Katie Lydell.

OPPOSITE PAGE 2) at CAMP Families Sunset Cruise on the Cape Water Taxi: Sarah Herrmann, Patricia Grant Landry, Greta Gardner, Nora Landry, Luke Landry, Josh Scarantino, Diane Sacrantino, Denise Poust, Kim Leisey, Kathy Solano, Joseph Colleli, Richard Thibodeau, David Carder; 3) at DE Division of the Arts Award Winners Art Reception at CAMP Rehoboth: Henry DeWitt, Marcia DeWitt, Kristen Pleasanton, Roxanne Stanulis, Kadreana Mack, Debbie Woods, Richard Hill Jr.; 4) at Rehoboth Women’s Senior Softball League: Jessica Nathan, Nicole Zinzi, Debby Armstrong, Denise Tamburo, (Top Row) Beth Petitte, Robin Esham, Terry Koff, Diane Pasatieri, Joanne Bowlin, Karen Belles, Maddie Cunningham, Linda Matulaitis, Suzanne Furman, Cathy Benson, Rene Toney, Jamie Scheaffer, (Bottom Row) Mary Beth Dwyer, Heather Nichols, Lisa Mosley, Lisa Orem, Lori Guitson, Karen Jorgensen, Lori Kline, Jody Poet, Gail Jackson.

(More CAMPshots page 102)

(Continued from page 101)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Caftans & Cocktails: Tim Murray, Joe Matassino, Cliff Lassahan, Tom Newton, Paul Smedberg, Jason Tier, David Case, Mark Koppersmith, Paul Weiner, Mike Moleksey, Bill Clark, Derek Thomas, Charles Wilcher, Brian Shook, Lynden Armstrong, Noah Cohen; 2) at Aqua: Angelo Tabbita, Luis Gomez, Jenn Keith, Rob King, Serge Knattar, Darin Henderson, Carl Cox, Joe Filipek, Larry Richardson, Jonathan Rothrock, C.J. Mitchell, Al Drulis, Scott Silber; 3) at Gallery 50: Dale McGann, Jane Knaus, Sallie Forman; 4) at Peninsula Gallery: Tony Boyd-Herron, Carol Boyd-Herron, Barbara Erchak.

OPPOSITE PAGE: 5) at Diego’s : Mark Hartman, Edmund Bagnell, Emily Paternoster, Max Dick, Monica Parr, Jefferson Rougeau, Timmy Cash, Steve Hoult, Rick Bane, Joann Bricked, Jill Palsgrove; 6) at CAMP Rehoboth Courtyard: Chris Beagle, DE State Senator Sarah McBride, Mark Purpura, Eric Englehart 7) at Theo’s Restaurant: T.J. Londagin, Ski Rowland, Larry Yarbuthnott; 8) at Rigby’s: Bob McCullough, Rick Cronan; 9) at RB Bay Pride: Tom Balling, Marc Charon, Marc Boutin, Tom Newton, Rex Varner, Miro Marinov, Jon Dauphine, John Hackett; 10) RB Bears Happy Hour at Somewhere: Ken Jamison, Chad Stover, Kevin Morris; 11) at Rehoboth Art League Outdoor Show: Teresa Haag, Sara Borey, Edith Calem, Dawn Blackwell, Theresa Wiziarde, Ari Ugwu, Letitia Lee, Marino Lewis, Leonora Wiziarde.▼

BOOKS FOR THE SEASON

Continued from page 95

sustaining an injury, Artie is faced with the new reality of aging, but finds a warm community of queer seniors at a local center who show him the true meaning of friendship.

YOUNG ADULT NON-FICTION

Queerbook

Various authors

Published by the It Gets Better queer youth support organization, Queerbook is a collection of essays, short stories, photography, poetry, and artwork created by young queer adults from across the US inspired by the theme, “What’s Your LGBTQ+ Utopia?” A book truly “for queer youth, by queer youth,” the volume was curated and edited by 10 LGBTQ+ student ambassadors selected by It Gets Better, which promises to direct 100 percent of proceeds back into its organization.

Queer Eye: You Are Fabulous

Lauren Emily Whalen

Geared toward young adults, especially those who have trouble expressing their feelings to loved ones, this fill-in giftable book is like having the Fab Five beside you, encouraging you to embrace your individuality, compassion, and creativity in a way only you can manage. As you fill in the prompts with a friend or significant other in mind, you’ll create a personalized gift brimming with encouragement and love—with plenty of full-color photos from the series to round out the fun.

Gender Rebels: 30 Trans, Nonbinary, and Gender Expansive Heroes Past and Present

Katherine Locke

While there are several solid LGBTQ+ history books on the market, few focus exclusively on the gender-nonconforming folks who have shaped that particular history. Gender Rebels dives in enthusiastically with rich storytelling about 30 trans, gender-expansive and nonbinary heroes representing cultures

from throughout the world. Here, readers will learn about Callon of Epidaurus, the first intersex individual to receive surgery, as well as actor Elliot Page, and Tomoya Hosada, the first trans politician in Japan. Locke also includes accessible, deep information about trans topics, including the history of the word “transgender,” a reference guide, and a glossary of terms.

YOUNG ADULT FICTION

Wish You Weren’t Here

Erin Baldwin

Summer camp is the perfect setting for this queer teen romance novel—a world away from regular life where the characters come alive against the backdrop of rustic cabins, campfire gatherings, and the daily rhythm of camp life. Erin Baldwin’s debut novel creates a summer to remember for high schoolers Juliette and Priya who undergo transformations that surprise even them in this enemies-to-lovers romance. Publishers Weekly called Wish You Weren’t Here a “charming debut that gives way to electric romance.”

Gooseberry

Robin Gow

A middle-grade novel centered on a nonbinary main character, Gooseberry is sure to charm readers with a tale about a sweet rescue dog. Poet and author Gow is best known for his acclaimed 2023 novel-in-verse Dear Mothman, which told the story of a young trans boy dealing with the death of his friend. Gooseberry is similarly tender, a thoughtfully spun story about found family and the importance of hope and self-acceptance, all told through the lens of a nonbinary young person bravely marking their early independence.

CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Jacob’s Missing Book

Sarah and Ian Hoffman

Fighting through all the noise related to the relentless assault on LGBTQ-centered books in school and public libraries is a simple refrain: Kids want to see themselves and their families reflected in the media they consume. There’s nothing wrong with that sentiment, despite insistence from the far right that loving and supporting LGBTQ+ community members is somehow problematic. Jacob’s Missing Book explores book banning and LGBTQ+ rights in a kid-friendly format that encourages discussion in an affirming, straightforward way. There’s plenty of humor here, too, as well as gorgeous, rich illustrations that bring a simple, yet poignant story to life.

My Guncle and Me

Jonathan Merritt

Illustrator Joanna Carillo brings Merritt’s heartwarming book about the special relationship between a nephew and his favorite “guncle” to life in this colorful picture book for younger readers. Henry is having a hard time at school, until Guncle shows up with his puppy and a lesson about why Henry is special, why family is so important, and how self-acceptance and feeling seen and loved are the keys to everything. ▼

Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the LGBTQ wire service.

Sarah Bricker Hunt is the managing editor for Pride Source/Between The Lines. She believes in the power of intentional journalism focused on people building their communities through everyday acts of love and service.

Richard Charles Griffin R

ichard Charles Griffin, formerly the executive chef and part owner of the former Dish restaurant on Baltimore Avenue from 2003 till 2009, died June 13, 2024, in Wadley, Alabama, at the age of 52.

A graduate of the Art Institute of Atlanta, Griffin was fondly known as “chef Riche,” or simply Riche, to nearly everyone in the Rehoboth community, and was celebrated for his culinary skills and innovative new takes on traditional signature dishes. After leaving Rehoboth, Griffin relocated to Atlanta to be near his mother and stepfather, and worked at a variety of places, including Whole Foods’s catering division.

His mother, the late Deb Rattigan, preceded him in death in 2023. He is survived by his brothers, Ryan Wyatt and Jesse Burr; stepfather, Peter Rattigan; and father, Richard Griffin.

A celebration of his life and memories for friends and family will be held at the CAMP Rehoboth atrium on Sunday, September 22, from 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m., with light fare provided. There will be a short service and sharing of memories at 2:00 p.m. ▼

Angela Strano

Angela (Ang) Strano passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on August 24, 2024, after being diagnosed with stage four colon cancer 25 months ago.

Angela was born in the Bronx, New York, and spent most of her childhood in Cornwall, New York. She was a great student, athlete, and leader in her school. She played basketball, softball, and volleyball in high school. Angie played softball for the first organized youth girls’ softball league in New York State. This was a major milestone in her life, establishing her conviction to advocate for women's rights and equality.

Angela was a terrific bowler and started playing golf in 2015. She soon became an avid golfer, playing in two women's golf leagues. Golf became her passion and sanctuary from stress.

In addition to sports, Angela loved motorized vehicles—and owned many fantastic ones over her lifetime. Her most memorable were a 1984 Corvette, 1983 Cadillac Coupe Deville, 1979 CJ-7 Jeep, and a 2005 Monaco Executive Motorhome with which she traveled the

country for many years. She was an avid traveler and adventure seeker.

Angela earned a Bachelor of Science from Marymount College and a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Mary. She was an accomplished enterprise and business development expert and IT project manager over a period of 35 years; her last job was with Bayhealth Medical Center where she was Manager of Interoperability & Business Intelligence. Angela is survived by her beloved wife, Cindy Gruman; her adoring brother, Frank Strano; her loving sister-in-law, Miggy Strano; her god-daughter and special niece, Erika Strano; and her wonderful nephew, Frankie Strano. Condolences can be offered at cavanaghfuneralhome.com and donations can be made to the Tunnell Cancer Center at Donate Today | Beebe Healthcare or beebehealthcare.org/ donate. Under the designation, please select Tunnell Cancer Center. Under notification, you have the option of letting Cindy know a donation was made: Cindy Gruman, 17 Kings Creek Circle, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971. ▼

Joseph Nolan

Joseph W. Nolan of Rehoboth Beach passed away peacefully Tuesday, August 6, 2024, with his devoted husband, Paul Barbera, by his side.

Joe was born May 23, 1954, in Folcroft, Pennsylvania, to the late Thomas J. and Anna M. (Hoban) Nolan. He was a 1972 graduate of St. James High School in Chester, Pennsylvania, and a 1976 graduate of Penn State University. He was a successful business owner of Kwik Kopy Printing in Voorhees and Marlton, New Jersey, for 31 years along with his devoted husband, Paul, until their retirement in 2013.

His resourcefulness, entrepreneurial spirit, and his eye for creativity were unmatched. Joe’s enthusiasm for friends, music, cars, and gardening were his passions in life, and his time at the beach was a welcome refuge. He and Paul were active Sawgrass and Rehoboth Beach community members and made many valued and lasting friendships. Joe was charming, with a wonderful sense of humor and style, and loved engaging in conversation. He always greeted everyone with a smile!

Joe took great pleasure in being in the company of his sisters and brother, and was a doting uncle to his many nieces, nephews, and great-niece.

Joe is survived by his loving husband of 46 years, Paul Barbera; his sisters, Cathy Mattera (Sal) and Patricia Lang (Steve); his brother, Bill (Amy); his nephews, Alex (Amanda) and Brian Mattera; his nieces, Caitlin (Mattera) Borkowski (Brady), Alyssa and Erin Lang, and Colette and Gretchen Nolan; his great-niece, Maeve Diane Mattera; as well as cousins, Joseph (“Charlie”) and Connie Venuto of Blackwood, New Jersey.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations to CAMP Rehoboth in Rehoboth Beach would be fitting to honor Joe’s memory. To donate, visit give.camprehoboth.org/give. ▼

CROSSWORD PUZZLE SOLUTION

(puzzle on page 80)

Subscribe today.

PARTNER’S

CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Opportunities

to all the CAMP

Rehoboth Community Center Volunteers for the period: Aug. 2 - Sept. 6, 2024

BLOCK PARTY: SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20

This event will include 100+ vendors on the second block of Baltimore Avenue, and performers at the CAMP Rehoboth Courtyard stage. Volunteers needed for set-up, breakdown, and welcoming attendees at the four block entrances throughout the event.

CROP: CAMP REHOBOTH OUTREACH PROGRAM

The CAMP Rehoboth Outreach Program (CROP) is constantly working to cultivate community and strengthen relationships and the connection between us all. Check the site for monthly volunteer opportunities.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES MEETING: TUESDAY, OCT. 8, 6 PM

Calling all new volunteers, and all interested in volunteering at the CAMP Rehoboth Block Party! The meeting is facilitated by the Volunteer Development Committee (VDC) and is a great chance to meet new community members and learn about the wide range of opportunities available through CAMP Rehoboth.

Sign up at camprehoboth.com/volunteers.

Your volunteer efforts benefit you and others.

Send your check for $50 to CAMP Rehoboth, 37 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. If you prefer to use your Visa, MasterCard or American Express call 302-227-5620.

— PLEASE VISIT camprehoboth.com/volunteers to register as a volunteer and to sign up for available opportunities.

THANK YOU

ACCESSIBILITY

Hope Vella

ADVOCACY TEAM

Daniel Bruner

David Garrett

Leslie Ledogar

Sherri McGee

ARTS TEAM

Logan Farro

Jane Knaus

Lois Powell

Leslie Sinclair

Patricia Stiles

Debbie Woods

CAMP ADMIN

Sherri McGee

CAMP CHORUS

LEADERSHIP

COMMITTEE

Bill Fuchs

Dianna Johnston

Carolyn Laurenzo

Judy Olsen

Gloria Richards

Dave Scuccimarra

Travis Stevens

CAMP DATABASE

Sondra Arkin

CAMP FACILITIES

Carol Brice

Lisa Evans

Eric Korpon

CAMP LIBRARY

Glenn Lash

CAMPCIERGES

Joe Benshetler

Barbara Breault

Ken Currier

Adam Emel-Firestone

Jim Mease

Kim Nelson

Pamela Rule

Mitchell Shahade

Patricia Stiles

Russell Stiles

Joe Vescio

CAMPSAFE CONDOM

STUFFING PARTY

Max Dick

Richard Dietz

Mark Eubanks

Richard Gamble

Claire Ippoliti

Paul Lindsey

Shawn McHugh

Marce McCollumMartin

Jim Mease

Doug Sellers

Dave Walker

CAMPSAFE HIV TESTING AND COUNSELING

Dick Hospital

E.J. Kenyon

Sharon Morgan

Joe Vescio

CAMPSHOTS PHOTO VOLUNTEERS

G Michael Beigay

Tony Burns

John Hackett

CODE PURPLE FUNDRAISER

Marce McCollumMartin

Mark Shaw

Charles Vandergrift

DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Jane Blue

Pat Catanzariti

Wes Combs

Mike DeFlavia

Amanda Mahony Albanese

LETTERS

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

Glenn Lash

Jim Mease

LETTERS MAILING TEAM

Nancy Hewish

Grant Kingswell

Vicki Martina

Stephen Palmer

Linda Yingst

LETTERS PROOFING

Barb Ralph

RAINBOW THUMB

CLUB

Chris Bowers

Carol Brice

Linda DeFeo

Richard Dietz

Patty DiModugno

Monica Fleishmann

Mitchell Shahade

Rachel Summers

VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Madelyn Jablon

Marce McCollumMartin

Jim Mease

Kim Nelson

Rina Pellegrini

John Michael Sophos

Joe Vescio

AD INDEX

A SPEN MEADOWSRehoboth. 1980 3BR/2BA. 1,100sf. Nicely updated inside & out. New HVAC & more. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $165,000 (2062092) Lot Rent $943/mt.

ANGOLA BEACH - Lewes. 2019 3BR/2BA. Screened porch & open deck. Fenced yard. Community pools, marina. 10 miles to bch. $200,000 (2056218) Lot Rent $784/mt. includes water & sewer.

CAMELOT MEADOWS - Rehoboth. 1979 2BR/2BA w/10’x20’ 4-season room. Fenced yard. Covered porch & deck. 2 Sheds. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $120,000 (2061230) Lot Rent $848/mt.

SUSSEX EAST - Lewes. 1994 2BR/2BA doublewide with a den. Needs work. Stone patio & VinylTech porch. Shed. Indoor community pool & 6 miles to beach. $85,000 (2065888) Lot Rent $937/mt.

SWEETBRIAR - Lewes. Your own private dock on Redmill Pond. 1974 2BR/1BA modified singlewide. Big shed. Community pool. 8 miles to beach. $118,000 (2065720) Lot Rent $838/mt.

SHAWN’S HIDEAWAYMillsboro. Remodeled 1973 3BR/1BA. 1,100 sq. ft. Turnkey. Wrap-around deck. Shed. Marina community. $146,500 (2064756) Lot Rent $485/mt. includes water.

COLONIAL EAST - Rehoboth Beach. Remodeled 2005 3BR/2BA doublewide. Shed w/elec. Community pool. 4 miles to Rehoboth & Lewes beaches. $145,000 (2052192) Lot Rent $903/mt.

SEA AIR - Rehoboth. 1997 3BR/2BA. Split BR plan. Nice interior. Eat-in kitchen. Side deck. Community pool & 3 miles to bch. $99,000 (2069844) Lot Rent $704/mt includes water.

ANGOLA BEACH -Lewes. 1978 3BR/1.5BA home has 10’x30’ sunroom. Fenced yard. Furnished. Community pools, marina. 10 miles to bch. $115,000 (2056560) Lot Rent $715/mt. includes water & sewer.

POT-NETS COVESIDE - Long Neck. Water views of the Bay. Remodeled 1984 3BR/2BA - 1,300 sq. ft. 3 decks & VinylTech porch. So many amenities! $184,600 (2065910) Lot Rent $1,105/mt.

SEA AIR -Rehoboth. 1982 3BR/2BA. Parking for 3 vehicles. Porch, patio, shed & outdoor shower. Community pool & 3 miles to beach. $139,000 (2058494) Lot Rent $644/mt includes water.

CAMELOT MEADOWS - Rehoboth. 1998 3BR/2BA doublewide w/sunroom. Big kitchen. Dining area. Shed w/elec. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $160,000 (2069438) Lot Rent $1,000/mt.

VIEW

2010 3BR/2BA + Fla. room for 1,456 sq.

-

Shed. Outdoor shower. Across from the pool & 3 miles to bch. $259,900 (2064776) Lot Rent $688/mt.

for 1,300 sq. ft. Storage shed. Community pool & just 3.5 miles to beach. $99,900 (2063384) Lot Rent $716/mt.

A SPEN MEADOWSRehoboth. 1985 3BR/2BA modified singlewide. Quartz counters. Fenced yard. Shed. Community pool & just 4 miles to beach. $159,900 (2066226) Lot Rent $800/mt.

SILVER

FARM

Rehoboth.

ft.